Comment is due by 28 June 2013 in respect of the proposed rebate of the customs duty on (i) polyurethane flat shapes with dimensions not exceeding 50 mm x 10 mm, self-adhesive on one side only, in rolls of a width not exceeding 20 cm, classifiable under tariff subheading 3919.10.07, for the manufacture of dust masks; (ii) silicone elastomeric straps with a length not exceeding 315mm and with width not exceeding 7mm, classifiable under tariff subheading 3926.90.90, for the manufacture of dust masks; (iii) natural rubber straps with a length not exceeding 315mm with a width not exceeding 7mm, classifiable under tariff subheading 4016.99.90, for the manufacture of dust masks; and (iv) inner and outer shells of non-woven material, classifiable under tariff subheading 6307.90.10, for the manufacture of dust masks. The application was lodged by 3M South Africa (Pty) Ltd who offered the following reasons for the application: (i) re-introduce local manufacturing; (ii) increase labour work force from 130 heads to 145 heads; (iii) reduce the cost of production to the market and allow it to be competitive as the costs will have decreased; and (iv) advance investment and promote employment by 2015.
