Key facts
- Currency
- South African Rand (ZAR)
- Import VAT/GST
- VAT 15%
- Customs tariff
- Own national tariff
- Countries using this tariff
- 4
- Last updated
- 11 October 2026
Summary
South Africa charges VAT on imports at a standard rate of 15%. South Africa has its own customs tariff, which 4 countries and territories also apply. South Africa uses the South African rand (ZAR).
Import VAT and other taxes in South Africa
South Africa charges VAT on imports at a standard rate of 15%.
What changed recently
The newest release on this page, the import taxes for South Africa, went live on border.bot on 11 October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What currency does South Africa use for customs?
South Africa uses the South African rand (ZAR).
What is the VAT rate on imports into South Africa?
South Africa charges VAT on imports at a standard rate of 15%.
Which customs tariff does South Africa use?
South Africa has its own customs tariff, which 4 countries and territories also apply. The countries and territories that apply the South Africa tariff are Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and Namibia.
Sources and updates
The import taxes for South Africa come from border.bot release 1 (edition reference snapshot), imported from a file, and have been live since 11 October 2026.
This page was last updated on 11 October 2026.
Guidance from published tariff data, not a binding ruling. For a decision customs must follow, apply to the destination’s customs authority for a binding tariff ruling.