South Africa Import Restrictions

by countryaah · Published June 2, 2019 · Updated February 13, 2025

In order to enter South Africa, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of South Africa government, preferably, license must be obtained prior to passage through the customs, preventing the goods from being retained. On this page, you will see what kinds of items are prohibited from entering the South Africa, and which items need special documentation before exporting to South Africa.

South Africa, one of the leading economies in Africa, has a complex and well-established system of import regulations aimed at protecting the health, safety, and environment of its citizens, as well as fostering local industries. As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), South Africa’s import restrictions are shaped by international trade agreements, regional trade initiatives, and its own national priorities. The government of South Africa imposes certain import regulations to ensure that only goods that meet safety, health, and environmental standards are allowed into the country. These regulations are also aimed at safeguarding the economy, protecting local industries, and maintaining security within the nation.

In South Africa, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), particularly through its Customs Division, plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of goods across its borders. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the Department of Health, and the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) are also heavily involved in the regulation of goods that require special scrutiny, such as agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, food items, and chemicals. Importers must comply with the country’s import regulations to ensure that their goods meet specific requirements.

Overview of South Africa’s Import Regulations

South Africa’s import regulations are influenced by its commitment to the global trading system, regional agreements, and national laws aimed at protecting the welfare of its people and the environment. South Africa is part of the WTO, and as a member of the SACU, it follows the customs union’s trade rules, allowing for the free movement of goods among its members (South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, and Eswatini). These agreements promote intra-regional trade while allowing the country to implement restrictions on certain goods that might harm public health or the environment.

The country also enforces import regulations on goods that could affect local industries, health standards, or security. In addition, South Africa has a commitment to ensuring that goods imported into the country comply with international safety, environmental, and intellectual property standards. Import restrictions are enforced by SARS through its Customs and Excise Division, which plays an essential role in ensuring that only authorized products enter the country.

Specific goods, such as pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs, and chemicals, are subject to additional controls and inspections. The Department of Agriculture is responsible for regulating agricultural imports, ensuring that they meet specific health and safety standards to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. The Department of Health and SABS are responsible for regulating consumer goods, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals to ensure that they meet national health and safety standards.

Prohibited Items in South Africa

South Africa has a list of goods that are outright prohibited from entering the country due to their harmful effects on human health, the environment, national security, or local industries. The government enforces strict controls on these products, and the importation of these goods is banned. These restrictions apply to a wide variety of products, ranging from hazardous materials to counterfeit goods.

Hazardous and Toxic Materials

South Africa imposes stringent regulations on the importation of hazardous and toxic materials. These materials can pose serious health risks to humans and the environment and are regulated accordingly.

Asbestos: The importation of asbestos and products containing asbestos is prohibited in South Africa. Asbestos is a highly toxic substance that can cause severe respiratory diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. South Africa has taken steps to protect its population from these health risks by banning the importation of asbestos and any materials containing it, including insulation, roofing materials, and fire-resistant clothing.
Radioactive Materials: The importation of radioactive materials is tightly controlled in South Africa. These materials, including uranium and thorium, pose significant health risks to people and the environment. South Africa follows international guidelines for the safe handling and disposal of radioactive materials, and their importation is restricted under both domestic laws and international conventions.
Toxic Chemicals and Pesticides: The importation of certain chemicals, including toxic pesticides and hazardous industrial chemicals, is prohibited in South Africa. These chemicals may cause severe harm to human health, wildlife, and the environment. South Africa is a signatory to several international environmental agreements, such as the Stockholm Convention, which restricts the importation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and other hazardous substances.

Counterfeit and Substandard Goods

South Africa actively works to protect its citizens from the dangers posed by counterfeit and substandard goods. These products not only violate intellectual property laws but can also present serious risks to consumers.

Counterfeit Medicines: Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a major concern for public health in South Africa. The importation of counterfeit medicines is illegal, as these products can be ineffective, dangerous, or even life-threatening. The government has stringent measures in place to detect and prevent the importation of fake medicines, including enhanced border inspections and international cooperation with other agencies.
Fake Electronics and Technology: The importation of counterfeit electronics, including phones, computers, and other technological products, is also prohibited in South Africa. These products often fail to meet safety and quality standards, and may malfunction or pose electrical hazards. The country enforces intellectual property laws to prevent the illegal trade of pirated digital products and counterfeit goods.
Pirated Digital Content: Pirated goods, including unauthorized software, music, movies, and games, are prohibited in South Africa. The country upholds strict copyright protection laws in accordance with international agreements to prevent the distribution of pirated digital content.

Endangered Species and Products Derived from Them

As part of its commitment to protecting wildlife and biodiversity, South Africa enforces import restrictions on goods derived from endangered species. The country has ratified the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and strictly regulates the trade of endangered species and their products.

Ivory and Rhino Horn: The importation of ivory, rhino horn, and other wildlife products made from endangered species is strictly banned. South Africa is home to a large population of elephants and rhinos, and the illegal poaching of these animals for their ivory and horns is a major concern. The country enforces these regulations to prevent illegal wildlife trade and protect vulnerable species.
Exotic Animal Parts: The importation of exotic animal products, including skins, furs, and bones, is also prohibited. These products are often linked to the illegal wildlife trade and contribute to the decline of endangered species. South Africa’s strict regulations are in line with global conservation efforts to protect biodiversity.

Products Requiring an Import License

In addition to outright prohibited goods, there are several categories of products that require an import license before they can enter South Africa. These products are subject to additional scrutiny and regulation to ensure they meet health, safety, environmental, and security standards. Import licenses are issued by the relevant authorities, and the process involves ensuring that these goods comply with national laws and international agreements.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices

Due to the critical importance of public health, South Africa has stringent regulations on the importation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices. These products are carefully regulated to ensure that they are safe and effective for the population.

Prescription Medicines: The importation of prescription drugs into South Africa requires an import license from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA). Medicines must meet strict quality standards, and only authorized companies can import pharmaceuticals into the country. Importers must submit documentation that proves the safety, effectiveness, and compliance of the products with local regulations.
Medical Equipment: Similar to pharmaceuticals, the importation of medical devices and equipment requires approval from SAHPRA. Medical devices must be tested for safety and efficacy before they can be imported. The government regulates the import of diagnostic tools, surgical instruments, and other medical products to ensure that they meet the necessary standards for patient care and safety.

Firearms, Ammunition, and Explosives

The importation of firearms, ammunition, and explosives is highly regulated in South Africa. These goods are considered sensitive and require a special import license to ensure that they are used for legitimate purposes such as law enforcement, military use, or sport shooting.

Firearms: Importers of firearms must apply for a license from the South African Police Service. This process involves background checks, a demonstration of need, and compliance with strict regulations regarding the importation, registration, and storage of firearms. The importation of firearms for personal use, hunting, or sporting activities is permitted under strict conditions, but firearms must be legally registered upon entry.
Ammunition and Explosives: The importation of ammunition and explosives is similarly regulated. Importers must apply for a license to bring in these goods, which can only be used for legitimate purposes such as security, law enforcement, or mining activities. Explosives must meet stringent safety standards to prevent accidents, and their importation is tightly controlled.

Agricultural Products and Live Animals

South Africa regulates the importation of agricultural products and live animals to protect the country’s agriculture industry and prevent the spread of pests and diseases. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries oversees the importation of these products to ensure that they meet local health standards and do not pose a risk to the country’s farming industry.

Live Animals: The importation of live animals, such as livestock, poultry, and exotic animals, requires an import license from the Department of Agriculture. These animals must be free from diseases and must meet South Africa’s quarantine and health standards before entering the country. Importers must submit veterinary health certificates from the country of origin to demonstrate that the animals are disease-free.
Agricultural Products: Importing agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, seeds, and fertilizers also requires an import license. These goods must be inspected for pests and diseases before entering South Africa. The Department of Agriculture regulates the importation of these products to protect local agriculture from harmful pests and diseases.

Food and Beverages

South Africa enforces strict regulations on the importation of food and beverage products to ensure food safety and public health. The Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture play key roles in regulating food imports to ensure that they meet local standards for safety, quality, and labeling.

Processed Foods: Importers of processed food products, including packaged snacks, canned goods, and beverages, must obtain an import license from the Department of Health. These products must meet South Africa’s food safety regulations, which include proper labeling, ingredient transparency, and ensuring that products are free from harmful substances or contaminants.
Meat and Dairy Products: The importation of meat, dairy, and other animal-based food products is highly regulated to ensure that these goods are safe for consumption. Importers must provide certificates from the veterinary authorities in the country of origin to confirm that the products meet South Africa’s safety standards. These products must also undergo health inspections upon entry to prevent the spread of animal diseases.

Enforcement of Import Restrictions

South Africa’s Customs Division is responsible for enforcing import restrictions and monitoring goods that enter the country. Customs officers inspect goods at various entry points, including ports, airports, and land borders, to ensure compliance with the country’s import regulations.

Customs Inspections

Customs officers in South Africa conduct thorough inspections of all imported goods to verify that they comply with the country’s laws. These inspections include checking the necessary documentation, such as import licenses, health certificates, and invoices, and physically inspecting the goods when necessary. Goods that do not meet the import requirements are either denied entry or confiscated.

Penalties for Violations

Violating South Africa’s import restrictions can result in significant penalties. Goods that are imported illegally or without the necessary licenses are subject to confiscation, and importers may face fines or legal action. In some cases, criminal charges may be brought against individuals or businesses attempting to import prohibited or restricted goods. The South African government uses these penalties to deter illegal trade and ensure that only safe and legitimate goods enter the country.