Border inconsistencies frustrate agents

Export growth into Africa – particularly Kenya, Botswana and Zimbabwe – has pumped up volumes for Customs Services, says export manager, Toni Lee Sykes. And while a wide range of exports is moving to Zimbabwe, there seems to be increased demand for earth moving equipment to Kenya and Botswana, transported via sea and roadfreight, said Sykes. The company generally uses the Kopfontein (Botswana), Lebombo (Mozambique) and Beitbridge (Zimbabwe) border posts and has found Kopfontein to be the most efficient by far, according to Sykes. “Kopfontein links into the South African electronic data interchange system (EDI) and goods are speedily and efficiently cleared. The biggest challenges we experience are at Beitbridge where the link to EDI is often not fully functional and third party agents often have to reframe manifests which leads to mistakes and duplication,” she told FTW. Customs Services exports large volumes of chemicals into Zimbabwe and has found that there are often inconsistencies with the authorities at Beitbridge. “One week we require no permits and then the following week the drivers will be told they need permits for clearance,” she said. “However, we are extremely positive about the expansion possibilities into Africa and find ways to work with border officials to overcome the challenges,” Sykes said. INSERT & CAPTION There seem to be growing opportunities into Africa, particularly in the mining and construction sector, with increased demand for earth moving equipment to Kenya and Botswana. – Toni Lee Syke