Importing and customs in Botswana
To import into Botswana you register with BURS's customs and pay any import duty plus VAT on the value of the goods. As a SADC Free Trade Area member, qualifying SADC-origin goods can enter at preferential — often zero — duty with a SADC Certificate of Origin.
Import basics
- 1 Register as an importer with BURS's customs.
- 2 Pay import duty and VAT on the customs value.
- 3 Claim SADC preference with a Certificate of Origin where goods qualify.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register to import into Botswana?
Yes — register with BURS's customs. Import duty and VAT apply on the value of goods.
More on Botswana
- Register a company — Botswana
- Company tax — Botswana
- VAT / sales tax — Botswana
- Hiring staff — Botswana
- Start a business — Botswana
- Data protection — Botswana
- Tax clearance — Botswana
- Empowerment / B-BBEE — Botswana
- Licences & permits — Botswana
- Payroll & employee tax — Botswana
- Annual returns — Botswana
- Full Botswana compliance guide
Importing & customs elsewhere in SADC
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Reviewed June 2026 from official sources. General information only — confirm with BURS or a registered professional.