HS code 8518.22 covers Loudspeakers (multiple drivers, single enclosure) — for example Bluetooth speakers, soundbars, hi-fi speakers. South Africa applies an indicative general customs duty of 0%, on top of which 15% import VAT is charged.
Audio equipment duties vary by line (0–25%) — verify your exact subheading.
Worked example: landed cost on R100,000 of goods
| Customs value (CIF) | R100,000 |
| Customs duty (0%) | R0 |
| Import VAT (15% on ATV) | R16,500 |
| Estimated landed cost | R116,500 |
VAT is charged on the Added Tax Value (customs value + 10% upliftment for non-SACU imports + duties). Figures exclude clearing, freight and any anti-dumping/safeguard duty. For an exact, all-in figure use the Duty & VAT Calculator.
Where HS 8518.22 sits in the tariff
Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 8518 is “Microphones and their stands; loudspeakers, mounted or not in their enclosures; headphones and earphones, combined or not with a microphone, and sets of a microphone and one or more loudspeakers; audio-frequency and electric sound amplifiers and sets”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.
- 8518.10 Microphones and stands therefor
- 8518.21 Loudspeakers; single, mounted in their enclosures
- 8518.22 Loudspeakers; multiple, mounted in the same enclosure — this page
- 8518.29 Loudspeakers; not mounted in their enclosures
- 8518.30 Headphones and earphones, whether or not combined with a microphone, and sets consisting of a microphone and one or more loudspeakers 0% duty
- 8518.40 Amplifiers; audio-frequency electric
- 8518.50 Amplifier sets; electric sound
- 8518.90 Microphones, headphones, earphones, amplifier equipment; parts of the equipment of heading no. 8518
Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 85 →
Watch HS 8518.22 for changes
Duty rates, anti-dumping measures and permit rules change by Government Gazette. We’ll email you if this code’s status shifts.
Data current as of 2026-08-06. Indicative general (MFN) rate — real duty can differ at 8-digit level, under trade agreements (SADC, EU-EPA) and by Government Gazette. This is guidance, not a tariff determination under s47(9) of the Customs & Excise Act, 1964. Verify against the current SARS Tariff Book.
More codes in Chapter 85 — Electrical machinery & equipment
Frequently asked questions
What is the import duty on loudspeakers (multiple drivers, single enclosure) in South Africa?
HS code 8518.22 (Loudspeakers (multiple drivers, single enclosure)) attracts an indicative general customs duty of 0% in South Africa, plus 15% import VAT charged on the Added Tax Value. Verify the exact rate in the current SARS Tariff Book.
What is the HS code for bluetooth speakers?
The Harmonised System heading for loudspeakers (multiple drivers, single enclosure) is 8518.22. South Africa uses an 8-digit tariff line based on this heading — confirm the precise 8-digit code in the SARS Tariff Book before importing.