SARS Commissioner Dr. Johnstone Makhubu announced that, effective June 1, 2026, the revenue service has begun issuing Rules of Origin certificates to qualifying exporters.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has confirmed that it has completed both the legal and operational frameworks necessary to implement China's temporary zero-tariff scheme, marking a significant step forward in strengthening trade ties between South Africa and one of its largest global partners.
The zero-tariff initiative, first announced by China in February 2026, applies to African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. The policy is aimed at boosting exports from the continent by reducing or eliminating tariff barriers on qualifying goods entering the Chinese market.
SARS Commissioner Dr. Johnstone Makhubu announced that, effective June 1, 2026, the revenue service has begun issuing Rules of Origin certificates to qualifying exporters. These certificates are essential for businesses seeking to benefit from the preferential tariff treatment.
"Beginning June 1, we are introducing a simple, printable certificate format, allowing exporters to prove origin and claim the tariff preference straight away," Makhubu stated. He added that SARS is committed to ensuring that exporters fully benefit from the scheme, even if shipments were already in transit when the policy came into effect.
