South Africa Tightens Import Rules for Low-Dairy Products

South Africa has introduced new import regulations requiring importers of certain food products containing less than 5% dairy for human consumption to obtain a Veterinary Import Permit (VIP) before shipments enter the country.

The new requirement, announced by the Department of Agriculture, forms part of measures to strengthen import controls while ensuring compliance with the country’s veterinary and food safety regulations.

Permit Applications to Be Processed Through E-Cert Platform

Under the new directive, all Veterinary Import Permit applications must be submitted electronically through the Department of Agriculture’s E-Cert platform. A dedicated application option has been created specifically for products containing less than five percent dairy.

Importers are expected to secure the permit before consignments are dispatched to South Africa to avoid delays at ports of entry.

Proof of Dairy Content Required

As part of the application process, importers must provide documentation confirming the dairy content of their products. The department will accept one of the following:

A report issued by an accredited laboratory;
Product packaging or labelling indicating the percentage of dairy content; or
Official verification from a recognised government authority.

These documents are intended to confirm that imported products fall within the specified dairy-content category.

Veterinary Health Certificate Not Required

While a Veterinary Import Permit is now mandatory, the Department of Agriculture has clarified that a veterinary health certificate will not be required for these products.

However, the Veterinary Import Permit number must be included on all consignment documentation. This will enable border officials to verify imported goods against the approved permit during customs and veterinary inspections.

Non-Compliance May Result in Shipment Delays

The department has warned that shipments arriving without the required Veterinary Import Permit may be detained by the Border Management Authority at South African ports of entry until all import requirements have been satisfied.

Importers are therefore encouraged to complete the necessary permit applications before shipping goods to minimise disruptions within the supply chain.

Strengthening Import Compliance

The latest requirement reflects South Africa’s ongoing efforts to enhance border controls and improve the monitoring of imported food products. Businesses involved in importing dairy-based products are advised to review the new regulations and ensure full compliance to avoid delays, additional costs and potential disruptions to trade.

The updated import procedures are expected to improve regulatory oversight while facilitating smoother clearance of compliant consignments entering the South African market.