HS code 9202.90 covers Guitars & other string instruments — for example acoustic & electric guitars, ukuleles, violins. South Africa applies an indicative general customs duty of 0%, on top of which 15% import VAT is charged.
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 9202.90 sits in the tariff
Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 9202 is “Musical instruments; string, n.e.c. in heading no. 9201, (e.g. guitars, violins, harps)”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.
- 9202.10 Musical instruments; string, played with a bow (e.g. violins)
- 9202.90 Musical instruments; string, played other than with a bow (e.g. guitars and harps) — this page
Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 92 →
Watch HS 9202.90 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.
Frequently asked questions
What is the import duty on guitars & other string instruments in South Africa?
HS code 9202.90 (Guitars & other string instruments) 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 acoustic & electric guitars?
The Harmonised System heading for guitars & other string instruments is 9202.90. 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.