HS 3401.20 – Soap in other forms
Soap; organic surface-active products and preparations for use as soap, in the form of bars, cakes, moulded pieces or shapes, whether or not containing soap; organic surface-active products and preparations for washing the skin, in the form of liquid or cream put up for retail sale, whether or not containing soap; paper, wadding, felt and nonwovens, impregnated, coated or covered with soap or detergent: Soap in other forms
General Import Chapter 34 PRODUCTS OF THE CHEMICAL OR ALLIED INDUSTRIESImport Duty Rates — South Africa 2026
General Rate
20%
EU / UK
free
SADC
free
AfCFTA
20%
Mercosur
20%
EFTA
free
Classification Details
HS Code3401.20
Full Code3401.20.5
Chapter34 — SOAP, ORGANIC SURFACE-ACTIVE AGENTS, WASHING PREPARATIONS, LUBRICATING PREPARATIONS, ARTIFICIAL WAXES, PREPARED WAXES, POLISHING OR SCOURING PREPARATIONS,
Statistical Unitkg
VAT15
JLog ServiceGeneral Import
Typical Documents Required
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the import duty rate for HS code 3401.20 in South Africa?
The general import duty rate for HS 3401.20 (Soap in other forms) is 20%. Preferential rates may apply under trade agreements including EU/UK, SADC, AfCFTA, Mercosur, and EFTA. VAT of 15 is charged on the CIF value plus duty.
What documents do I need to import Soap in other forms into South Africa?
To import goods under HS 3401.20, you typically need: Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin. Additional permits or certificates may be required depending on the specific product and country of origin.
How do I calculate the total cost of importing Soap in other forms?
The landed cost includes the product cost (CIF value), plus import duty at 20%, plus VAT at 15 on the combined value. Use JLog's Import Calculator at app.jlog.co.za/import-calculator.html for an accurate estimate.
Can JLog help with customs clearance for HS 3401.20?
Yes. JLog provides full customs clearance services for all HS codes including 3401.20. We handle documentation, SARS compliance, and logistics from our base in Woodstock, Cape Town. Contact us at info@jlog.co.za or call +27 21 300 6099.
Are there preferential duty rates for importing Soap in other forms?
Yes, South Africa has trade agreements that offer reduced duty rates. For HS 3401.20, the EU/UK rate is free, SADC rate is free, and AfCFTA rate is 20%. You need a valid Certificate of Origin to claim these rates.
Related HS Codes
| HS Code | Description | General Duty |
|---|---|---|
| 3401.11 | - - For toilet use (including medicated products) | 20% |
| 3401.19 | - - Other | 20% |
| 3401.30 | Organic surface-active products and preparations for washing the skin, in the fo... | 20% |
Need Help Importing This Product?
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