South-Africa Chemical Products Tariff Rates
Chemical Products import and customs duty guide - last updated 2026-09-29
Average Tariff
Category average rate
Maximum Tariff
Category maximum rate
Minimum Tariff
Category minimum rate
HS Coverage
Relevant HS chapters
South-Africa Chemical Products - Overview
Chemical products span industrial, specialty and consumer chemicals. Duties are generally modest on bulk chemicals but can rise on finished goods, and safety, licensing and anti-dumping measures are common in this sector.
For reference only: the average, maximum and minimum rates below are taken from South-Africa's published tariff schedule. Actual duty depends on the exact HS subheading and on whether preferential (FTA) rates apply.
Representative HS Codes
| HS Code | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 2801-3824 | Inorganic & organic chemicals, cosmetics preparations |
| 3901-3914 | Plastics in primary forms |
| 3101-3105 | Fertilizers |
HS chapters: HS Chapters 28-39 (Inorganic / Organic Chemicals, Plastics, Fertilizers, Cosmetics).
How South-Africa Import Duty on Chemical Products Is Calculated
Customs duty is normally charged on the customs value of the goods (commonly CIF - cost, insurance and freight). The ad valorem rate for the correct HS subheading is applied to that value. Depending on South-Africa, the following may also apply on top of or instead of the base tariff:
- Ad valorem duty - a percentage of customs value (the figures shown above).
- Specific / compound duty - a fixed amount per unit, or a mix, on some lines.
- VAT / GST / excise - consumption taxes charged on the duty-inclusive value at the border.
- Trade-agreement (preferential) rates - lower or zero where the goods meet rules of origin.
- Anti-dumping / safeguard duties - extra duties on specific products found to be dumped or surging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the South-Africa tariff on chemical products?
Industrial and bulk chemicals in South-Africa carry a relatively low average duty of about 4.8% (max 10%, min 0%); finished chemical goods can be higher.
Which HS codes cover chemical products?
Chemicals are mainly HS Chapters 28-39: inorganic/organic chemicals (2801-3824), plastics in primary forms (3901-3914) and fertilizers (3101-3105).
Are anti-dumping duties common on chemicals?
Yes - chemicals are a frequent target of anti-dumping and countervailing measures. Confirm the specific HS code against the trade-remedy registry before quoting the MFN rate.
Do trade agreements lower chemical tariffs in South-Africa?
Where South-Africa has an FTA with the exporter, originating chemicals may qualify for preferential or zero rates; rules of origin and certificates of origin are required.