Check for import restrictions with SARS
However if you intend to import products to South Africa you will have to contact the South African Revenue Services (SARS) to establish whether or not the products you wish to import are restricted.
You can check this information yourself by going to the SARS website:
- On the right-hand side of the home page is a drop down menu. Select “All publications”
- A list of all the publications will appear on the screen
- Scroll down until you find “Customs – Operating Procedures – custom rulings”
- Click on “More”
If the products you intend to import do have restrictions, then it is best to contact SARS for more information.
New and second-hand cell phones
SARS
If you are importing new cell phone products to South Africa you have to register with the South African Revenue Services (SARS) as an importer and you also have to register separately to obtain an import code.
- Timeframe: To register with SARS for an import permit and import code takes approximately 14 working days.
- Cost: No cost to register
- Contact: Visit the SARS website for more information.
ICASA
When registering with ICASA a variety of documents including a test report from the manufacturer of the product will be required.
Documents are:
- Two identifying colour photographs of at least postcard size of the equipment to be type approved.
- A functional description of the equipment, at least at block diagram level.
- Operating instructions.
- The original or a certified copy of the test report (both RF and EMC), issued by an accredited communication testing facility.
- Detailed circuit diagrams, approved and stamped by the test facility and highlighting any modifications which have been incorporated.
- The originals or certified copies of the test report and certificate of compliance – issued by an approved test facility.
- The original or a certified copy of the test report for Safety Regulations issued by an approved safety test facility.
- Timeframe: To register with ICASA takes 2 weeks
Cost: ±R4 000
Contact: www.icasa.org.za
SABS
In the case where an importer is unable to supply a test report, they must contact the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) to perform product testing so that the product conforms to national and international standards. The tests undertaken by the SABS are Electronic Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) and safety testing (RF).
- Timeframe: 4-6 weeks
- Cost: R10 000 – R20 000
- Contact: To apply to the SABS for a test report
- Call: +27 012 428 7911 or visit the SABS website
Importing Second Hand Cellular Goods
If you import second cellular products to South Africa, you need to register with SARS, ICASA and the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa, ITAC.
ITAC
Not all goods or products are subject to import and/or export control measures. All used goods and second-hand goods, are subject to import control measures. This is why you have to register with ITAC when importing second hand goods.
A list of goods subject to import control and export control measures is available and can on submission of your contact details be mailed, faxed, or e-mailed to you by ITAC
- Timeframe: To register with ITAC to import second hand goods is immediate
- Cost: No cost
- Contact: http://www.itac.org.za
SARS
If you are importing new cell phone products to South Africa you have to register with the South African Revenue Services (SARS) as an importer and you also have to register separately to obtain an import code.
Timeframe – To register with SARS for an import permit and import code takes approximately 14 working days.
- Tinned, bottled and dried food
The right route would be to obtain samples of the products you wish to import and request that the SABS test and check them. If the products do not fall under their umbrella, they will refer you to the correct organisation in order to meet with South African compliance regulations.
- Hair products
Register with the Cosmetic, Toiletry & Fragrance Association of South Africa (CTFA). This organisation regulates the hair and cosmetic industry in South Africa and works hand-in-hand with the South African Bureau of Standards, the Department of Health and other important international bodies to set up responsible self-regulation for cosmetics in South Africa.