Market
Marrowfat dried peas (whole green dry peas; Pisum sativum) are traded in South Africa under HS heading 07.13, specifically within 0713.10 for dried peas. Trade data for HS 0713.10 indicates South Africa is a net importer of dried peas, with imports exceeding exports in 2023. Importers must comply with NPPOZA phytosanitary import conditions under the Agricultural Pests Act and may need a DALRRD plant import permit, supported by a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country’s NPPO. SARS tariff lines for dried peas apply ad valorem duties that vary by tariff line (whole green peas vs split) and by preferential regime, while the product’s bulk nature makes sea freight and port performance material to landed cost.
Market RoleNet importer (HS 0713.10 dried peas)
Market Growth
Risks
Phytosanitary Compliance HighDried peas are regulated plant products; failure to meet NPPOZA/DALRRD phytosanitary import conditions (including obtaining an import permit when required and matching phytosanitary certification to permit conditions) can result in detention, treatment orders, return, or destruction of consignments at entry.Confirm permit/exemption status with DALRRD/NPPOZA before contracting; share permit conditions with the exporter; require pre-shipment verification that the phytosanitary certificate and any additional declarations align with the South African permit.
Logistics MediumBecause dried peas are freight-intensive, ocean freight volatility and port delays can materially impact CIF pricing, demurrage exposure, and service levels into South Africa.Contract with lead time, use reliable carriers/forwarders, and hold buffer inventory for retail/ingredient programs during high-congestion periods.
Quality MediumMoisture ingress and storage pest infestation during transit or warehousing can cause mould, off-odours, insect contamination, and elevated brokens—triggering buyer rejection or rework costs.Set receiving specs (moisture, foreign matter, insect-free), use appropriate packaging/liners, and apply documented storage pest prevention and inspection routines through the warehouse chain.
FAQ
Which HS code is commonly used for marrowfat dried peas in South Africa?Dried peas are classified under HS heading 07.13, with peas (Pisum sativum) listed under 0713.10 in the South African tariff schedule. Whole green peas are listed under 0713.10.20 and split/skinned green peas under 0713.10.25; the exact code depends on whether the product is whole or split and whether it is for sowing or for food use.
Do importers need a plant import permit and phytosanitary certificate to bring dried peas into South Africa?South Africa requires importers to comply with NPPOZA phytosanitary import conditions for plant products, and an import permit must be obtained from DALRRD/NPPOZA when the commodity is not exempt. The exporter should then present the consignment to the exporting country’s NPPO so a phytosanitary certificate can be issued in line with South Africa’s permit conditions.
Is South Africa a net importer of dried peas?Yes for the HS 0713.10 category: TrendEconomy’s HS 0713.10 trade data for 2023 shows South Africa’s imports (about US$7.83m) exceeded exports (about US$2.82m), which is consistent with a net-import position for dried peas within that HS category.