The South African Revenue Service (SARS) announced on Sunday, May 31, 2026, that it will begin issuing Rules of Origin certificates from Monday, allowing eligible exporters to claim duty-free access to the world’s second-largest economy.
The move could create new opportunities for South African businesses seeking to expand sales into China, particularly as global trade remains under pressure from slowing demand and shifting supply chains.
Under the arrangement announced by Beijing in February, African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China can benefit from tariff relief on qualifying goods. However, exporters must prove that their products meet China’s origin requirements before they can receive the tariff preference.
SARS Commissioner Johnstone Makhubu said the agency would issue certificates retrospectively for qualifying goods shipped or cleared after 1 May 2026, ensuring exporters do not miss out on the benefits during the transition period.
“From 1 June, SARS is issuing origin certificates retrospectively to cater for qualifying goods that were shipped or cleared after 1 May 2026, so they can still benefit fully from the zero tariffs,” Makhubu said.
To speed up implementation, SARS has introduced a simplified printable certificate format designed to help exporters secure duty-free treatment more quickly.
The agency also noted that businesses awaiting certificates can, for now, lodge security with Chinese customs authorities. The security will be released once a valid SARS-issued certificate is submitted.
Despite the opportunity, SARS warned that duty-free access is not automatic. Only products that satisfy China’s rules of origin and documentation requirements will qualify.
The authority urged exporters to verify product eligibility with Chinese partners, maintain accurate records, and comply fully with customs procedures to avoid delays, penalties, or disqualification from the programme.