Import chemicals

About

What you should do

How long does it take

How much does it cost

Forms to complete

Who to contact

 About importing chemicals

To import certain chemicals into South Africa you need permission from the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) which will decide if it is in the best interests of the public to import the chemicals.

Chemicals are controlled to comply with the provisions of the Montreal Protocol and the 1988 United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. These are international efforts to protect the ozone layer and fight international drug dealing respectively.

When you apply for a permit to import these chemicals, you must get a recommendation letter from the South African Police Service (SAPS) or from the Department of Environmental Affairs.

What you should do

1. Complete the following application forms:
   • Application for Permit to Import Chemicals, IE464
   • Application for Permit to Import Chemicals Annexure.
2. Submit the following:
   • a copy of your VAT certificate
   • a certified copy of your identity document if you are not in possession of a VAT certificate
   • recommendation from SAPS in the event of chemicals listed in the 1988 Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic substances being imported
   • recommendation from the Department of Environmental Affairs if the chemicals are listed in the Montreal Protocol.

How long does it take

It may take up to three days for an import permit to be granted.

How much does it cost

ITAC does not charge any service fees but you will have to pay customs duty at SARS. Customs duty is calculated as a percentage of the value of the goods (set in the schedules to the Customs and Excise Act). For more info on SARS customs duty, visit the SARS website.

Forms to complete

• Application for Permit to Import Chemicals, IE464
• Application for Permit to Import Chemicals Annexure

Who to contact