Beit Bridge agents oppose new customs proposal

LEONARD NEILL
MAJOR EXTENSIONS and developments continue at the Beit Bridge border post but there are issues that require urgent attention, says Beit Bridge Border Clearing Agency’s Brian Kalshoven.
On the positive side SARS’ EDI system is now fully operational.
“We will shortly have a new import searching warehouse together with the paved import parking area to complement the exports complex.
“The gateway truck park is now fully operative, with an agent’s block accommodating our exports office, a canteen, ablutions for drivers, refuelling facilities, an on-site heavy diesel workshop and bonded areas.”
But with upgrades almost complete, Kalshoven is concerned about the plan to have the existing agent’s block of offices cut off from its present easy access to the customs offices.
“Right now it is a simple 20m walk from the offices through a gate and to customs. But some authorities want that gate sealed off, which will mean a 2km drive to the proposed new gate, where we will have to clock in and obtain a gate pass. As it stands now the five largest agencies, which provide 80% of the income enjoyed by SARS, will face this new burden.
“The South African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) local branch is fighting the issue, and we are hoping for a reprieve from what seems to be an unnecessary step on officialdom’s part.”