The South African Revenue Service (SARS) announced on Sunday, 31 May ’26, that it will commence issuing rules of origin certificates from Monday, 1 June ’26. It would permit eligible exporters to claim duty-free access to the world’s second-largest economy.
This move may create new opportunities for South African businesses seeking to expand sales into China. This is especially relevant as global trade continues to face pressure from slowing demand and shifting supply chains.
The minister of trade, industry & competition, Parks Tau, welcomed the announcement by the government of the People’s Republic of China that it would introduce a temporary zero-tariff preference scheme. The scheme is for 20 least developed African countries. This includes South Africa.
This measure follows an announcement by Chinese President Xi Jinping on 14 February ’26 that China intended to implement a zero-tariff treatment for African countries with which China has diplomatic relations.
Least developed countries have already been benefiting from duty-free access to the Chinese market. This follows commitments made at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
Qualifying South African goods exported to China between 1 May ’26 and 30 April ’28 would benefit from zero customs duties under the scheme he proposed. The exemption is provided that exporters comply with the applicable tariff schedules as well as rules of origin.
Exporters have already been advised that access to the preference scheme is conditional. Access to the preference scheme is contingent upon meeting the prescribed rules of origin requirements. The scheme includes product-specific conditions. Additionally, a valid certificate of origin must be submitted for Chinese customs clearance.
The Department of Trade, Industry & Competition (DTIC) said that it was working with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) on customs procedures, besides the legislative amendments needed for implementation. The work includes processes relating to the issue of certificates of origin.
The department added that for products already in transit & moving without a certificate of origin that had been issued before or at the time of shipment, Chinese importers would need to pay a deposit. This deposit may be refunded once the requested supporting documentation has been submitted.
In such cases, the certificate of origin must be marked as having been issued retrospectively. It will remain valid for one year from the shipment date.
This scheme applies to a broad range of products. However, certain goods may still be subject to specific conditions. The scheme includes tariff rate quotas.
Exporters are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the detailed tariff schedules. Furthermore, rules of origin documentation ensure compliance as well as maximize the benefits of the preferences.
According to DTIC, the preferential market access framework presents a strategic opportunity for South Africa to strengthen export competitiveness. Furthermore, diversifying into higher value-added products. In addition to these benefits, the initiative aims to expand market access for agricultural, industrial, and beneficiated goods.
The department also said that the initiative supports broader national objectives. This includes industrial development and employment creation, as well as export-led economic growth.
The DTIC, in partnership with relevant government departments as well as stakeholders, had initiated the processes of facilitating implementation of the preference scheme.
DTIC’s Export Help Desk will serve as a central point of contact for guidance. Additionally, the help desk will address queries related to compliance and market access processes.
The DTIC has announced the imminent publication of a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions document for exporters on its website.
Minister Tau said the zero-tariff treatment preference scheme would reflect the strong relationship between China & the African continent. It also represents a significant outcome of FOCAC ’24.
Tao added that the scheme offers South African exporters an opportunity to expand into one of the world’s largest as well as the most dynamic consumer markets. The initiative also complements the DTIC’s diversification strategy. This is aimed at strengthening the resilience of the South African economy.
