Africa · country guide
Trade with South Africa.
South Africa is the continent’s most industrialised economy, with mining, vehicle manufacturing, steel, chemicals and agriculture. It exports platinum-group metals, coal, iron ore and citrus, and imports fuel, machinery and wheat.
- Durban · Cape Town · Ngqura · Richards Bay
- 4 relevant categories
- 4 relevant products
Market overview
Key industries
- Mining
- Automotive
- Steel and chemicals
- Agriculture
- Logistics
Import opportunities
- Fuels
- Machinery
- Vehicles and parts
- Wheat
- Electronics
Export opportunities
- Platinum-group metals
- Coal
- Iron ore
- Vehicles
- Citrus and wine
Trade requirements
The main rules to check when trading with South Africa. This is orientation, not legal or customs advice.
- Customs registration
- Importers register with the revenue service; the SACU common tariff applies.
- Compulsory specifications
- Regulated products need approval from the national regulator for compulsory specifications.
- Import permits
- Certain goods, including some used equipment, need import permits.
Logistics considerations
Durban is the busiest container port in sub-Saharan Africa.
Richards Bay is a major coal export terminal.
Port and rail capacity constraints should be built into delivery plans.
Relevant TP4 categories for South Africa
Relevant products
Steam Coal
Thermal coal for power generation, cement kilns and industrial boilers.
HS 2701
Milling Wheat
Wheat for flour milling, specified by protein, moisture and test weight.
HS 1001
Hydraulic Excavators
Crawler and wheeled excavators, new or used, for construction and mining.
HS 8429
Diesel Generator Sets
Standby and prime-power generator sets for sites, buildings and industry.
HS 8502
Information current as of October 2026. Regulations, duties and documentation requirements change. Confirm with the relevant authority, your customs broker or forwarder before shipment. TP4 does not claim offices or operations in South Africa.
Trading with South Africa?
Tell TP4 the product, quantity and route.