Question 1

What is an anti-dumping duty in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

An anti-dumping duty is an extra customs duty ITAC and SARS impose on specific products from specific countries (and often specific producers) that are sold into South Africa below fair value. It is charged on top of the ordinary customs duty and can run from roughly 20% to over 160%. It is frequently payable as a provisional payment — a cash amount to SARS, not deferred duty — which is why it blindsides importers’ cash flow.

Question 2

How do I know if my product needs an ITAC import permit?

Accepted Answer

About 276 tariff lines are under import control in South Africa and require an ITAC import permit for new goods. Separately, ALL used or second-hand goods require an import permit regardless of the tariff code. This checker flags both: enter your product or HS code and set the new/used toggle. Always confirm against ITAC’s import-control list before ordering.

Question 3

Is this tool a SARS tariff determination?

Accepted Answer

No. The results are indicative guidance drawn from public SARS and ITAC documents and are not a tariff determination under Section 47(9) of the Customs & Excise Act, 1964. The importer remains solely responsible for correct classification, and only a formal written determination from SARS is binding.

Question 4

How is import VAT calculated on top of duty?

Accepted Answer

South Africa charges 15% import VAT on the Added Tax Value (ATV): the customs value uplifted by 10% (for non-SACU imports) plus customs duty plus any anti-dumping or safeguard duty. So duties are effectively taxed again through VAT — this tool’s estimate uses the same ATV method as our Duty & VAT Calculator.

Question 5

How current is the anti-dumping data?

Accepted Answer

Anti-dumping and safeguard measures change every few weeks by Government Gazette. This dataset shows a “data current as of” date and uses cautious “may carry — verify” wording throughout. Always re-check the current SARS Schedule 2 close to your order date, or use the watchlist to be emailed when a code’s status changes.

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