Published By GlobalTrade Customs (Pty) Ltd
Understanding Anti-Dumping Duty in South Africa: How SARS Enforces Trade Fairness
What is Anti-Dumping Duty?
Anti-dumping duty is a special tariff imposed on imported goods that are sold in South Africa at prices lower than their “normal value” — usually the price in the exporter’s domestic market.
The purpose of this duty is to protect local industries from unfairly priced imports that cause or threaten to cause injury to South African producers.
These duties are not general customs tariffs, but rather trade remedies designed to level the playing field when unfair trade practices occur.
Legal Framework: ITAC, SARS and the Customs Schedules
South Africa’s anti-dumping system operates under the Customs and Excise Act (Act No. 91 of 1964) and the International Trade Administration Act (Act No. 71 of 2002).
- ITAC (International Trade Administration Commission) investigates allegations of dumping.
- SARS (South African Revenue Service) enforces and collects the anti-dumping duties once ITAC makes a recommendation and the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition approves it.
- The duties are published in the Government Gazette and implemented through Schedule 2 of the Customs and Excise Act.
How an Anti-Dumping Investigation Works
- Application:
A South African manufacturer or industry association submits an application to ITAC alleging dumping by foreign exporters. - Initiation and Notice:
If ITAC finds the evidence credible, it initiates an investigation and publishes a notice in the Government Gazette. - Provisional Measures:
ITAC may recommend provisional duties (usually valid for six months) if there is a preliminary finding of dumping and injury. SARS then implements these at the border. - Final Determination:
After analysing all submissions and data, ITAC makes a final determination. If dumping and injury are confirmed, final duties are imposed and reflected in SARS tariff schedules.
SARS Customs Implementation
When SARS receives the directive to impose anti-dumping duties:
- The relevant tariff subheadings in the Customs & Excise Schedules are updated.
- SARS customs systems automatically apply the additional duty rate when importers clear affected goods.
- Importers must pay the anti-dumping duty in addition to normal customs duties and VAT.
- Importers who paid provisional duties may later qualify for refunds or adjustments depending on the final outcome.
Proper HS classification, valuation, and country of origin documentation are critical to ensure that duties are applied correctly and to avoid penalties or overpayments.
Impact on Importers and Traders
Anti-dumping duties can significantly affect your business costs.
For example, a product previously imported at a 10% duty may suddenly face an extra 35% or more in anti-dumping duty — drastically changing profitability.
Common affected products in South Africa have included:
- Tyres and steel products
- Aluminium profiles
- Electrical appliances
- Ceramic tiles
Importers should monitor ITAC investigations and update sourcing strategies to remain competitive and compliant.
How GlobalTrade Customs (Pty) Ltd Can Help
At GlobalTrade Customs (Pty) Ltd, we provide expert assistance to ensure your imports comply with SARS and ITAC requirements while minimising unnecessary costs.
Our services include:
- Monitoring ITAC anti-dumping investigations and notices that could impact your products.
2. Advising on tariff classifications, customs valuation, and correct documentation.
3. Handling customs clearance under SARS regulations, including anti-dumping and countervailing duties.
4. Assisting with provisional payment management and refund claims.
5. Offering trade compliance consultations to reduce exposure to penalties and delays.
Whether you import as an individual or a business, our team ensures your goods move through customs smoothly and compliantly.
GlobalTrade Customs (Pty) Ltd — your trusted partner in customs clearance, trade compliance, and import duty management.
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