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HS Codes Chapter 36 — Explosives & Pyrotechnics

HS Chapter 36 covers explosives; pyrotechnic products; matches — fireworks, safety matches, blasting caps, flares and signal rockets. For South African importers and exporters clearing through SARS, this chapter sits at the heart of everyday customs work at OR Tambo, Cape Town Container Terminal and Durban Harbour.

Every consignment under Chapter 36 must be declared on a SAD500 using the correct 8-digit tariff heading. The duty rate, rebates and any import permits all follow from that classification. A wrong tariff heading is the single most common reason a Chapter 36 shipment is held at the port of entry.

JLog coordinates customs clearance for Chapter 36 goods moving through Cape Town. We prepare the SAD500, manage the submission to SARS, and keep your classification defensible and your duty correct. Whether you are importing a one-off sample or running a regular container programme, we handle the paperwork so your consignment keeps moving. Browse the most-requested HS codes in Chapter 36 below, or request a quote for clearing your next consignment.

What Is HS Chapter 36?

HS Chapter 36 covers explosives, pyrotechnics, matches, pyrophoric alloys and certain combustible preparations under the South African Harmonised Tariff Schedule. SARS uses these codes to classify explosives, detonators, fireworks, safety matches and lighter fuels for all import and export customs declarations.

Common Chapter 36 HS Codes

Use the JLog HS Code Directory to find the specific code for your product. Each code includes the current import duty rate, VAT treatment, and customs notes.

Import Duty and VAT for HS Chapter 36

Goods in HS Chapter 36 are subject to South African import duty plus 15% VAT on the ATV (FOB customs value + 10% uplift for non-SACU origin + non-rebated duty). Duty rates vary by subheading — check the individual HS code pages or contact JLog for a landed cost calculation.

Importing Chapter 36 Goods into South Africa

To import explosives, detonators, fireworks, safety matches and lighter fuels into South Africa, you must be registered with SARS as an importer. All goods must be declared on a SAD500 customs declaration. JLog’s DutyCheq service handles SARS importer registration, and our customs clearance team manages all SARS submissions.

Shipping Chapter 36 Goods with JLog

JLog handles the full import and export process for goods in HS Chapter 36 — from freight quotes and carrier booking to customs clearance, SARS submission management, and delivery to your door.

Contact JLog: info@jlog.co.za | 021 300 6099

Frequently Asked Questions

What duty applies to explosives, pyrotechnics, matches, pyrophoric alloys and certain combustible preparations?
Duty rates vary by subheading within HS Chapter 36. Use the HS code search above to find the specific rate, or contact JLog for a customs classification consultation.

Do I need a permit to import explosives, detonators, fireworks, safety matches and lighter fuels?
Permit and compliance requirements vary by HS subheading and end-use within Chapter 36. Some lines may require ITAC import permits, product compliance certificates or origin certificates to claim a preferential rate. Check the individual HS code page or contact JLog for a per-product check.

Can JLog clear explosives, detonators, fireworks, safety matches and lighter fuels through SARS for me?
Yes. JLog provides full customs clearance for all goods in HS Chapter 36, including document preparation, SARS submission, and query management. Contact us for a quote.

Related JLog Services

• Customs Clearance South Africa — Full SARS clearance service
• DutyCheq — Real-time customs monitoring platform
• DutyCheq — HS code, duty and import VAT calculator
• HS Code Directory — Browse all South African tariff codes

Last updated: 2026. Source: SARS Harmonised Tariff Schedule.