On 23 August the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (Itac) announced the proposed rebate of the ‘general’ rate of customs duty on sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), in aqueous solution, classifiable in tariff subheading 2815.12, for the manufacture of semi-chemical fluting paper, classifiable in tariff 4805.11, in such quantities, at such times and under such conditions as Itac may allow by specific permit.
The application was lodged by SAPPI Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd T/A SAPPI Tugela Mill Private, who reasoned that the local manufacturers of caustic soda could not meet the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) demand. SAPPI Tugela Mill Private further stated that the creation of duty would improve the company’s competitiveness, create job opportunities and would increase the company’s cash flow which could be used for expansion purposes.
Comment is due by 20 September 2019.
Story by: Riaan de Lange