Regulatory Comparison
ITAC Import Permits vs PVoC CoC: What Is the Difference?
ITAC import permits and PVoC CoCs serve different purposes and are administered by different bodies. An ITAC import permit does not satisfy the PVoC CoC requirement, and a PVoC CoC does not satisfy the ITAC import permit requirement. For goods that require both, both documents must be obtained.
What Each Body Does
ITAC and SABS: Two Different Regulatory Functions
The International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) is responsible for import and export control under the International Trade Administration Act (Act 71 of 2002). ITAC issues import permits for goods that are subject to import control — typically goods that are restricted, sensitive, or subject to trade remedies such as anti-dumping duties.
The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) administers the PVoC programme, which requires pre-shipment inspection and certification for regulated goods. PVoC focuses on product safety and standards compliance — ensuring that goods meet the relevant SANS standards before they enter the South African market.
When Both Apply
Goods That Require Both an ITAC Permit and a PVoC CoC
Some goods require both an ITAC import permit and a PVoC CoC. For example, certain steel and aluminium products are subject to ITAC import control (due to anti-dumping measures) and are also regulated under PVoC (due to compulsory SANS standards for structural materials). Importers of these goods must obtain both documents.
Other goods require only one of the two. Many consumer goods require a PVoC CoC but not an ITAC import permit. Many industrial goods require an ITAC import permit but not a PVoC CoC. The specific requirements depend on the HS code and the applicable regulations.
Common Confusion
Why Importers Confuse ITAC Permits and PVoC CoCs
The confusion typically arises because both are required before goods can clear South African Customs. Importers who are familiar with ITAC permits sometimes assume that having an ITAC permit covers all import compliance requirements. It does not.
ITAC permits are obtained from ITAC before the goods are shipped. PVoC CoCs are obtained from an SABS-accredited inspection body before the goods are shipped. Both processes must be completed before shipment, but they are managed through different channels and involve different documentation.
Compliance Workflow
Managing Both ITAC and PVoC Requirements
Importers who need both an ITAC import permit and a PVoC CoC should manage the two processes in parallel. ITAC permit applications are submitted to ITAC. PVoC CoC applications are submitted to an SABS-accredited inspection body. Both processes take time and should be started well before the planned shipment date.
CoC Vault addresses the PVoC side of this workflow. It provides SHA-256 hashing and permanent verification URLs for PVoC CoCs. ITAC permit documentation is managed separately through the ITAC system.
Does an ITAC import permit replace the PVoC CoC requirement?
No. ITAC import permits and PVoC CoCs are separate requirements administered by different bodies. An ITAC permit covers import control compliance. A PVoC CoC covers product safety compliance. Both are required for goods that fall under both regimes.
Does a PVoC CoC replace an ITAC import permit?
No. A PVoC CoC covers product safety compliance under SANS standards. It does not cover import control, which is ITAC's domain. Both documents are required for goods that fall under both regimes.
What goods require both an ITAC permit and a PVoC CoC?
Some steel and aluminium products, certain chemical products, and other goods subject to both import control and compulsory SANS standards may require both. Check the ITAC import control schedule and the SABS PVoC product scope against your HS codes.
Is ITAC part of the PVoC programme?
No. ITAC is an independent body for import and export control. The PVoC programme is administered by SABS. They are separate regulatory bodies with separate mandates.
When does PVoC enforcement become mandatory?
20 September 2026. From that date, SARS Customs will check for valid PVoC CoCs on all regulated goods.
Continue Learning
ITAC Permits and PVoC CoCs Are Both Required
If your goods need an ITAC permit and a PVoC CoC, both must be obtained before shipment. Create your CoC Vault record for the PVoC side of your compliance before 20 September 2026.
Sources: Government Gazette No. 54374 (20 March 2026); Standards Act 8 of 2008; Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964. Last verified: 3 May 2026. certificatesofconformity.co.za is an independent reference publication operated by LinkDaddy LLC, a Florida-registered US entity. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the SABS, NRCS, SARS, or any agency of the Government of South Africa.