DISCUSSIONS ARE underway in the SA Development Community over the introduction of a container seal that will be accepted by all countries in the region. The aim is for a customs inspection to be completed at the port of entry, usually Durban, and then a seal to be placed on the containers which will be valid at all border crossings. At the moment goods are liable to be inspected at each border point, which has led to delays, lost and broken seals and theft of consignments - particularly in Zimbabwe.
Transporters in Zimbabwe say life will be made much easier if there is only one inspection and there is a uniform customs system of keeping track of containers.
But nobody's pulse is quickening at the thought of a speedy introduction of the new system. It is thought that nothing will be done before the end of the year.
By Martin Rushmere
