Printing SA has announced that the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) is undertaking a review of the tariff structure applicable to selected paper and paper-product tariff lines under chapter 48 of the Customs and Excise Tariff.
The review forms part of a broader assessment of the existing tariff structure and its impact on the South African paper and downstream printing industries. The codes under review are as follows: 48.01, 48.02, 48, 03, 48.04, 48.05, 48.11, 48.18 and 48.23. Printing SA is therefore inviting members to submit comments and relevant information regarding the potential impact of the tariff review on their businesses and the broader printing industry.
Members are requested to provide specific, evidence-based input on matters including:
– The tariff lines and paper products relevant to your business.
– Current import volumes and values.
– The impact of existing duties on input costs and business operations.
– The availability and competitiveness of locally produced alternatives.
– The potential impact of changes to tariff rates on downstream manufactures and printing businesses.
– Any tariff relief, rebates or other measures that may be required.
– The effect of the current tariff structure on competitiveness, pricing and employment.
– Any other relevant information or concerns regarding the tariff structure.
The review, published by the Minister in the Government Gazette No. 55409, includes an assessment of the existing tariff structure and relevant trade remedy measures applicable to the sector. Members can access the Government Gazette published by the Minister here.
In addition to the review of the tariff structure, ITAC will investigate the possible introduction of an import surveillance system for paper and paper products. The review will also consider relevant trade remedy measures and other factors affecting the industry, including import trends, market conditions and developments within the domestic and international markets.
Members are strongly encouraged to participate in this process, as the information received will assist in ensuring that the practical impact of the tariff structure on the printing and downstream paper using industries is properly considered as part of the review.
Please note that the ITAC’s indicated deadline for submission is 30 October 2026.
To enable Printing SA to prepare its submission to ITAC, please forward comments to the Commercial and Technical Department by 30 Oct 2026 at Nchabalala@printingsa.org with the subject line: ITAC Tariff Investigation – Member Submission
Member input is important in ensuring that Printing SA presents a balanced and representative submission on behalf of the industry.
PRINTING SA
+27 11 287 1160
info@printingsa.org
www.printingsa.org
