Customs and AfCFTA: trading across borders, and where the rules are heading
At a glance
Customs: SARS Customs controls what enters and leaves South Africa, and how it is valued and taxed
Importer/exporter code: You need a customs client number to clear goods
AfCFTA: The African Continental Free Trade Area aims to reduce tariffs and barriers across the continent
Practical reality: Preferential tariffs need proof of origin, and implementation is phased
Watch for: Rules of origin and protocols, which decide whether your goods qualify
What it is
Cross-border trade runs on two sets of rules: the customs rules that decide how goods move and what duty applies, and the trade agreements that can reduce that duty. The AfCFTA is the newest and largest of those agreements, but the value depends on proving your goods originate where the rules say they do.
The important point: a lower tariff is only available if the paperwork proves your goods qualify. Rules of origin, not good intentions, decide the rate.
Who this affects
Importers and exporters
You need a customs client number, correct tariff classification, and accurate declared values. Mistakes here mean delays, penalties and unexpected duty.
Businesses looking at African markets
If you want to sell into other African countries, AfCFTA preferences can help — but only where both countries have the relevant arrangements in place and your goods qualify.
Questions to ask first
Do I have a customs client number, and is my tariff classification correct?
What is the declared value, and can I prove it?
Do my goods meet the rules of origin for a preferential rate?
Is the destination country already applying the relevant AfCFTA arrangements?
Are there permits or standards my goods must meet before export or import?
How to trade across borders
1. Get a customs client number, and classify your goods correctly.
2. Declare the correct value, and keep the records that prove it.
3. Check whether your goods meet the rules of origin for a preferential rate.
4. Confirm the destination country applies the relevant AfCFTA arrangements.
5. Meet any permits or standards before you export or import.
Common mistakes
Using the wrong tariff code, which changes duty and can trigger penalties.
Claiming a preferential rate without proof of origin.
Assuming AfCFTA applies automatically to every shipment today.
Under-declaring value to reduce duty, which is a serious offence.
Related
Sources
Customs and Excise Act; SARS Customs guidance
AfCFTA agreement, protocols and rules of origin
Trading across borders?
We can help with customs readiness and checking whether your goods qualify for preferential rates.
