South Africa updated its Importer and Exporter (IOE) regulations in 2025, introducing new digital systems and stricter compliance checks. For IT and telecom companies, these rules determine how efficiently servers, routers, and other hardware clear customs.
Here’s everything you need to know and how Carra Globe keeps your shipments compliant, fast, and audit-ready.(Itac.Org.Za)
The 2025 Shift: Digital Compliance Comes First
South Africa’s Registration, Licensing and Accreditation (RLA) system now centralizes importer registration on SARS eFiling. Foreign companies must nominate a local agent before registering as an importer. (sars.gov.za)
At the same time, the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) still controls import permits for certain goods, and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) enforces product safety standards for electronics. (thedtic.gov.za)
| Regulation Area | Change Introduced | Who It Affects |
| Importer Registration | Fully digital under RLA | All importers (local & foreign) |
| Import Control | ITAC import permits still required | Tech, telecom, electrical hardware |
| Safety Standards | NRCS letters of authority mandatory | Electrical & IT devices |
| VAT on Imports | 15% on Added Tax Value | All importers |
What Tech Importers Must Do in 2025
1. Register on SARS RLA
Foreign companies must appoint a South African agent before being approved as importers. Learn how similar frameworks work globally in The Role of Importer of Record (IOR) for IT and Electronics Imports
2. Verify ITAC Permit Requirements
Before shipping, confirm if your IT hardware falls under import controls. Used or refurbished equipment almost always needs a permit. Read how Carra Globe manages controlled shipments in Customs Clearance for IT Hardware Imports into Ghana: A 2025 Compliance Guide.
3. Obtain NRCS Safety Approvals
For electronics covered under compulsory specifications, importers must provide conformity proof before clearance.
4. Calculate Import VAT Correctly
SARS clarified that VAT (15%) must be computed on the Added Tax Value (ATV) of imports, not just the CIF value. (thedtic.gov)
5. Keep Digital Records for Audits
All supporting documents, invoices, permits, and NRCS letters must be retained for at least 5 years.
Common Challenges for Tech Importers
- RLA Profile Errors: Missing documents or outdated agent details can block importer registration. (Trade.Gov)
- Permit Misclassification: Some HS codes overlap between free and controlled categories, causing confusion.
- Incomplete NRCS Evidence: Missing conformity reports delay clearance for servers or routers.
- Incorrect VAT Computation: Using CIF × 15% instead of SARS’ Added Tax Value model triggers reassessment.
How Carra Globe Simplifies IOE Compliance in South Africa
Carra Globe provides complete Importer of Record (IOR) and Exporter of Record (EOR) solutions for tech companies entering South Africa, from digital registration to on-site customs support.
IOR & EOR Representation
We act as your legal importer, manage SARS RLA profiles, and ensure documentation meets South African Customs standards. (SARS)
Freight Forwarding & DDP Logistics
We manage freight under DDP or DDU terms with all duties and VAT pre-modeled, ensuring no hidden costs. See how similar strategies improve global supply chains in How Air Freight Improved Supply Chain Management.
Audit & Post-Entry Support
Carra Globe’s compliance team prepares ITAC, NRCS, and VAT audit files aligned with SARS expectations.
Why South Africa Matters for Tech Importers
- Strategic port access across the SADC region
- Transparent customs processes with online tracking
- Skilled logistics workforce and bonded warehousing options
- Preferential trade agreements with EU, UK, and BRICS partners
Partner With Carra Globe for South African Imports
Carra Globe helps global tech companies import safely and efficiently under South Africa’s 2025 IOE rules. From digital registration to post-entry audits, we handle compliance so your shipments move faster.
Talk to our import compliance team to set up your South Africa import plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is RLA in South Africa’s customs system?
RLA stands for Registration, Licensing, and Accreditation, the SARS system for managing importer and exporter registrations.
2. Do I need an ITAC import permit for IT hardware?
Yes, if your goods fall under controlled tariff codes, especially used or sensitive equipment categories.
3. What VAT rate applies to IT hardware imports?
VAT is charged at 15% and calculated using the Added Tax Value model.
4. Are product safety approvals required?
Yes, the NRCS requires proof of compliance for electronics under compulsory specifications.
5. How does Carra Globe support compliance?
Carra Globe acts as your IOR, manages RLA and ITAC filings, provides audit readiness, and delivers full DDP logistics.