Importing Fresh Produce into South Africa — HS Chapters 07 & 08
Fresh vegetables and fruit under HS Chapters 07 and 08 attract general duty rates of 0%–20% depending on the product, with some seasonal tariffs applying to protect local growers. All fresh produce imports must pass DAFF (Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries) phytosanitary inspection before clearance — this is non-negotiable and perishable cargo must be planned accordingly.
HS 07-08 Fresh Produce — Duty Rate Table
| HS Code | Description | General Duty Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0701 | Potatoes, fresh or chilled | 10% | DAFF permit required |
| 0702 | Tomatoes | 20% | Seasonal anti-dumping possible |
| 0803 | Bananas | 0% | DAFF phyto certificate required |
| 0805 | Citrus fruit | 0% | Cold chain monitoring critical |
| 0806 | Grapes | 4%–12% | Seasonal tariff applies |
Required Import Documents
Fresh produce imports require: a phytosanitary certificate issued by the exporting country’s plant protection authority, a DAFF import permit, a commercial invoice, a packing list, a bill of lading or airway bill, and a Fumigation Certificate where required. Cold chain temperature logs are required for controlled-atmosphere cargo. DAFF inspection must happen before SARS customs clearance.
How SARS Clearance Works for Fresh Produce
- DAFF import permit is obtained before shipment departs the origin country.
- Cargo arrives cold chain compliant; DAFF inspects phytosanitary documentation at port.
- Physical inspection of the produce may occur to check for pests or disease.
- SARS clears the cargo once DAFF issues its clearance certificate.
- Duty and VAT are assessed; most basic foods attract zero-rated VAT treatment.
- Cold storage at the port must be pre-booked to avoid deterioration during inspection.
JLog handles end-to-end customs clearance, SARS compliance, and last-mile delivery for all HS code categories.
We reply within 4 business hours — info@jlog.co.za or visit our
customs clearance page.
Related JLog services:
Customs Clearance Cape Town |
Import Logistics South Africa |
All HS Code Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions — Importing Fresh Produce into South Africa
What is the import duty rate for fresh produce in South Africa?
Fresh produce duty rates vary significantly. Many fresh vegetables attract 0% when not in season in South Africa and higher rates when competing with local production. Rates range from 0-30%.
Do I need a permit or licence to import fresh produce into South Africa?
A phytosanitary certificate from the country of origin is mandatory for all fresh produce. DAFF (Department of Agriculture) import permits are required for most fresh fruit and vegetables. Fumigation certificates may also be required.
How long does SARS customs clearance take for fresh produce?
Clearance typically takes 1-3 business days for compliant shipments with complete documentation. Shipments flagged for physical inspection may take 3-5 business days. JLog pre-checks all documentation before handover to SARS to minimise delays. Contact info@jlog.co.za to discuss your specific shipment timeline.