<--- Back to contents

Chapter 13 - Small Business Law

Exporting and importing

The International Trade Administration Act (No 71 of 2002) makes provision for control, through a permit system, of the import and export of goods specified by regulation. The primary function of this directorate is the administration of the provisions of the International Trade Administration Act with regard to the issuing of import and export permits in terms of Section 6 of the Act and investigations and enforcement in terms of part E of the Act.

The International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC)  is part of the DTI group of institutions and is responsible for administering the provisions of the Act including issuing import and export permits.

Permits for exporting and importing

If you want to either import or export goods you will need to complete the required application forms for importing and exporting and submit this to the ITAC. These forms are available on the ITAC website: www.itac.org.za (click on Documents and then  Application forms).

The policy relating to importing or exporting of goods differs from one industry sector to the next.  Most new goods are exempt from import control measures. If you want information regarding the import or export of particular goods you must provide ITAC with specific details of these goods. 

How can you get a permit?

You must complete the required application forms and submit them to the ITAC office. These forms are available in hard copy and can be colleted from the ITAC and then mailed, faxed, e-mailed or downloaded from the ITAC website.

Permits are issued free of charge and should be issued in approximately 3 days.  

Goods that are subject to export and import controls 

Not all goods or products are subject to import and/or export control measures. All used goods, second-hand goods, waste and scrap are subject to import control measures. For a list of schedules that contain details of the goods that are subject to import and export controls, view the ITAC website www.itac.org.za (click on Services and then  Imports)

The purpose of import controls are to:

1. ensure that used and second hand goods do not erode the manufacturing SACU industry and the job opportunities in this industry.
2. ensure that industry sensitive goods are imported in a regulated manner.
3. ensure that there is compliance with environmental requirements.
4. assist agencies with the enforcement of other legislation such as safety
5. ensure compliance with the provisions of International Agreements.

Registering as an exporter and importer

All importers and exporters in South Africa are required to register with the South African Revenue Services (SARS).  To download the import and export forms refer to the following SARS link: www.sars.gov.za/ce/registration/Registration%20main.htm

For more information call the SARS call centre on 0860-121 218.

Applicants must submit the relevant completed forms to their nearest SARS Customs & Excise branch office.