By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South Africa’s trade surplus nearly halved to R15.2bn in April from a downwardly revised R30.2bn in March, SA Receiver of Revenue figures showed on Friday.
The narrowing gap was driven by a sharp 11.8% surge in imports (reaching R175.4 billion), which outpaced modest 1.8% growth in exports (R190.6 billion).
Export flows increased in April 2026, driven by gold, platinum group metals (PGMs), and petroleum oils (excluding crude).
Import flows increased on the back of higher importation of petroleum oils (excluding crude), electric generating sets, and automatic data processing machines.
Due to ongoing Vouchers of Correction (VOCs), the preliminary trade balance surplus of R31.9 billion announced for March 2026 was revised downwards by R1.7 billion, with the final number at R30.2 billion.
Meanwhile the Commissioner, Dr Johnstone Makhubu, said that SARS has finalised the legal and operational framework to administer China’s zero-tariff scheme.
The Rules in terms of section 46A of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964, regulating the issuing of certificates of origin are available on the SARS website. From 1 June 2026, SARS will be issuing Rules of Origin certificates for qualifying exports.
Makhubu confirmed that goods already shipped or cleared on or after 1 May 2026 are not disadvantaged and that traders can obtain origin certificates for those shipments, allowing them to receive the intended duty-free benefits in China.
As an interim measure, exporters can lodge security with China’s customs administration in the absence of a certificate of origin. This security will be released upon the lodging of a valid certificate of origin obtained from SARS in respect of qualifying goods.
SARS is designated issuing authority for the required Rules of Origin certificates. China’s unilateral zero-tariff arrangement, also offered to several other African countries, allows qualifying goods to enter the Chinese market duty-free. For purposes of the verification of the issued certificates, please contact rulesoforigin@sars.gov.za
Additionally, as an interim measure, exporters requiring assistance can also contact SARS at rulesoforigin@sars.gov.za for guidance on the new arrangement. FAQ will be published on the SARS website early next week.