Some imports may require permission from the Department of Agriculture, Health or Environment Affairs. Specific excise taxes are levied on alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, tobacco and tobacco products, mineral waters, some petroleum products and motor vehicles. The dutiable value of goods imported into South Africa is calculated on the F.O.B. price in the country of export. In conformance with its WTO commitments, South Africa has lifted import surcharges. Minimum credit terms in use-open accounts.
Open accounts are two thirds of all transactions.
Usual credit terms of 60 to 120 days apply. Foreign exchange bank delays average up to one month. The import cover is currently 2.2 months Documentation Bill of Lading For customs purposes in South Africa, one negotiable and two non- negotiable copies of the Bill of Lading are required. Certificate of Origin A declaration of Origin Form DA59 is to be used in cases where a rate of duty lower than the general rate is claimed and, also, for goods liable to anti-dumping or countervailing duty. It is a prescribed form with stipulated format, size and content.