CUSTOMS DUTIES: SOUTH AFRICA TO PORTUGAL

Overview of Customs Duties from South Africa to Portugal

When exporting goods from South Africa to Portugal, shipments enter the European Union customs territory and are subject to EU customs regulations and tariff classifications. Portugal, as a member state of the European Union, applies a common external tariff to all imports from non-EU countries, including South Africa. All products must be classified according to the EU's Combined Nomenclature system and declared to customs authorities upon arrival.

The customs clearance process requires proper documentation, accurate product classification, and compliance with EU import regulations. Understanding the applicable duty rates and procedural requirements is essential for smooth cross-border trade between South Africa and Portugal.

EU Tariff Classification System

Products entering Portugal from South Africa are classified using the EU's integrated tariff system, which consists of three components:

• Harmonized System (HS): A six-digit commodity classification system developed by the World Customs Organization, comprising 5,000 commodity groups organized hierarchically by sections, chapters (2 digits), headings (4 digits), and subheadings (6 digits)
• Combined Nomenclature (CN): The EU's eight-digit coding system that extends the Harmonized System with EU-specific subdivisions, serving as the common customs tariff for EU trade
• Integrated Tariff (TARIC): The comprehensive EU tariff database comprising the eight-digit Combined Nomenclature code plus two additional digits, providing all applicable trade policy measures, protective measures, and duty rates

General Duty Rates

Duty rates for imports into Portugal vary significantly depending on the specific product classification under the Combined Nomenclature system. The following table provides guidance on common product categories:

Product Category	Typical Duty Rate	Notes
Agricultural Products	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates
Automotive and Parts	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates
Textiles and Clothing	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates
Machinery and Equipment	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates
Medical Equipment and Devices	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates
Energy Products	Varies by HS code	Contact our experts for specific rates

To determine the exact duty rate applicable to your specific product, you must consult the EU's Integrated Tariff (TARIC) database, which is updated daily. The TARIC database can be searched by country of origin, Harmonized System code, and product description on the European Commission's Directorate-General for Taxation and the Customs Union website. Additionally, the Customs Info Database tariff look-up tool available on trade.gov (with free registration) can assist in estimating duties and taxes for your shipment.

Required Documentation

• Commercial invoice detailing product description, value, and terms of sale
• Packing list identifying contents and weights of each package
• Bill of lading or air waybill as proof of shipment
• Certificate of origin confirming South African origin of goods
• Product classification documentation with applicable HS/CN codes
• Import declaration form (SAD - Single Administrative Document) or electronic equivalent
• Any applicable certificates of compliance, quality, or safety
• Insurance documents if goods are insured during transit

Important Regulations

• All products must be classified under the appropriate Combined Nomenclature code before customs clearance
• Certain products may be subject to anti-dumping duties or temporary protective measures
• Prohibited and restricted imports are enforced at EU borders; verify your product's admissibility
• Labeling and marking requirements must comply with EU standards
• Product safety, health, and environmental regulations applicable in the EU must be met
• Customs valuation must be based on the transaction value of the goods

Trade Agreements and Resources

South Africa and the European Union maintain trade relations, though specific preferential duty rates may vary. Consult the official TARIC database and the EU's trade policy documentation to identify any applicable trade agreements or preferential arrangements that may reduce duty rates for your products.

For detailed assistance with your specific shipment, contact customs brokers licensed in Portugal or consult the resources available through trade.gov and the European Commission's customs website.