Stay Ahead of Compliance Trends in Africa

China is set to extend its zero-tariff policy to imports from 53 African countries starting May 1, 2026. All products originating from these 53 nations will benefit from full zero-tariff treatment, with a 'green lane' expected to streamline customs and quarantine procedures. This move follows FOCAC Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and is part of a progressive roadmap for duty-free access already piloted in 33 nations.

SARS published multiple Gazette notices for 2026, including variable tariff formula updates for sugar (rate increase) and wheat/wheaten flour (rate reduction), plus a provisional anti-dumping measure on clear float glass from Tanzania (through 22 July 2026). Exporters and importers should monitor specific HS code changes and implement updated landed-cost calculations.

AfCFTA duty-free/phase-down schedules take effect in South Africa's tariff book, rewriting Part 1 of Schedule No. 1. For manufacturers and exporters, AfCFTA's promise is locked in the customs code. Exporters should validate HS classifications, confirm Rules of Origin eligibility, and ensure SARS AfCFTA registration is in place to avoid losing preferential duty treatment.

SARS published notice R.7019 amending Part 1 of Schedule No. 1, deleting tariff subheadings 0307.39.20/30/40 and inserting 0307.32.20/30/40 to provide for frozen mussels. Importers should verify HS code changes and ensure proper tariff classification.

As AfCFTA duty-free/phase-down schedules take effect in South Africa’s tariff book, exporters should validate HS classifications, confirm Rules of Origin eligibility, and ensure SARS AfCFTA registration is in place to avoid losing preferential duty treatment.

Nigeria Customs announced a new procedure for DDP courier operations covering registration, manifest submission, declaration, valuation, clearance, delivery, and compliance monitoring. Stakeholders are urging phased rollout, capacity certification, and risk/value-tiered enforcement.