HS Code for Noodles in South Africa — Import Classification & Duty

Importing noodles into South Africa requires the correct HS code on your SAD500 customs declaration. The right classification determines your duty rate, VAT base, and whether you qualify for preferential tariff treatment.

Quick reference

Detail	Information
HS Heading	1902
Chapter	19 — Preparations of cereals, flour, starch or milk
General (MFN) duty	20%
VAT on import	15% on customs value + duty + 10% ATV uplift

How SARS classifies noodles

Heading 1902 covers pasta, noodles, couscous and similar cereal products. The critical split is cooking state: dried uncooked egg noodles fall under 1902.11, plain dried noodles under 1902.19, and cooked or frozen noodles under 1902.30. Instant noodles packaged with seasoning sachets in the same box can complicate classification — if the seasoning pouch is the dominant value, the set may reclassify as a prepared food under heading 2104. Base classification on the noodle content, not the sachet.

Preferential duty rates

South Africa maintains preferential tariff agreements with SADC member states, the EU (via the EPA), and AGOA. If your noodles originates from a preference country and you hold the correct certificate of origin — EUR.1 for EU goods or Form A for AGOA — your effective duty rate may be lower than the general rate above.

Total import cost breakdown

• Customs duty: 20% on the FOB customs value
• VAT: 15% on the ATV (FOB customs value + 10% uplift + duty)
• Port and terminal handling charges
• Customs clearance fee
• Last-mile delivery to your address

Import noodles to South Africa with JLog

JLog is a Cape Town-based customs clearance and freight specialist. We verify HS codes before your shipment departs — preventing reclassifications at the border — and manage the full clearance, documentation, and last-mile delivery. Get a quote for importing noodles today.