Stringent regulatory framework for SA exports

Zero tariffs on exports to China do not equate to zero compliance costs. Regardless of destination, a South African trader normally has to comply with the Customs and Excise Act, SARS customs procedures, tariff classification, valuation, rules of origin and any product-specific controls. The Chinese landed cost is therefore made up of the South African export price, freight costs and insurance, applicable Chinese taxes and charges and compliance costs. Among the compliance costs is an additional CHN information code introduced by SARS. From September 4, traders were required to declare CHN in the Additional Information field, according to a SARS notice. To qualify for exemption, the goods must meet the prescribed rules of origin, including product-specific requirements and a valid Certificate of Origin, according to the dtic. Documentation for exports to Japan falls into three groups: SA export documents, transport/ commercial documents and commodity-specific documents. The exact requirements are determined by the HS code and product. Japan Customs lists the invoice, B/L/Sea Waybill or AWB, insurance certificate, freight account and packing list among the documents that should accompany an import declaration. It also states that permits/ approvals and certificates of origin may be required depending on the goods. Exporters must ensure goods comply with Japanese import standards (e.g., food safety, electrical safety). The country focuses on food safety. Under Japan’s Food Sanitation Act, commercial imports of food, food additives, apparatus and food packaging require an Import Notification to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Hong Kong, which is used as a gateway for SA exports to the Far East, operates as a free port which generally does not impose customs tariffs on imports, according to the Trade and Industry Department of the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Licensing is, however, required for the import and/or export of some goods to fulfil international obligations or obligations undertaken by Hong Kong to our trading partners, or to meet public health, safety or internal security needs,” it states. South African exports to Hong Kong were valued at around $1.86 billion (R34bn) during the 2025 calendar year, according to United Nations COMTRADE data. Subject to certain conditions, shipping companies, airlines and freight companies that have registered with the Trade and Industry Department are exempted from the import/ export licensing requirements for their transhipment cargoes. ER