Importing spices 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 | 0910 |
| Chapter | 09 — Coffee, tea, mate and spices |
| General (MFN) duty | 0% |
| VAT on import | 15% on customs value + duty + 10% ATV uplift |
How SARS classifies spices
Each major spice has its own heading in Chapter 9. Ginger is under heading 0910.11, turmeric under 0910.30, and fenugreek under 0910.99. Pepper is under 0904, vanilla under 0905, cinnamon under 0906, and cloves under 0907. Mixed spice blends containing more than one spice are classified under 0910.91. The ground or whole form does not change the heading — ground ginger and whole ginger root are both 0910.11. The zero duty rate applies to all raw and ground spices in Chapter 9.
Preferential duty rates
South Africa applies zero import duty on spices under the general (MFN) tariff. No preferential certificate of origin is required for duty purposes, though a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are still required for customs entry.
Total import cost breakdown
- Customs duty: 0% 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 spices 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 spices today.
Need to ship goods under HS Code fors.pi.ces?
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