Lawnmower Blades On 8 June the South African Revenue Service (Sars) announced the creation of two tariff subheadings, one of which specifically refers to lawnmower blades. Tariff subheading 8208.40.10 provides for the increase in the “General” rate of customs duty from free of customs duty to 20% ad valorem. Tariff subheading 8208.40.90 provides for a general tariff subheading, and is set at a rate of customs duty which is free. Impact of Euro Zone on South Africa The Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) in partnership with Wits University’s Corporate Strategy and Industrial Development (CSID) division, has invited academics, members of civil society, economists, the media, policy analysts and other interested public members to its inaugural Economic Policy Dialogue, which is scheduled for 18 June at 18:00. The topic under discussion is “Economic Policy Dialogue – Impact of the Euro zone economic crisis and possible effects on South Africa”. The discussion panel includes Prof. Gabriel Palma, Senior Lecturer at Cambridge University; Goolam Ballim, Chief Economist & Global Head of Research for Standard Bank Group; and Lionel October, Director-General of the dti. Publication of Airport Charges The Airports Company of South Africa Limited on 25 May gazetted the “Publication of Airport Charges”. The notice contains a Schedule which details: (i) Liability to pay airport charges; (ii) Notification of movement of aircraft and payment of charges; (iii) Landing charges; (iv) Parking charges; and (v) Passenger service charges. Supreme Court of Appeal favours Sars The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) found in Sars’ favour by dismissing an appeal brought by Distell Limited on 22 May 2012 relating to the tariff classification of beverages, fermented or distilled (spirituous) beverages. The reason for this action is that the tariff classification determines the liability for such manufactured goods for the payment of excise duty (a duty imposed on certain South African manufactured products). Customs Rules for Travellers In an earlier issue we advised of a Sars notice to amend the Rules to the Customs and Excise Act (Sections 15 and 120), and forms relating to the Traveller Card (TC-01) and the Traveller Declaration (TRD1). Please note the implementation dates at the following border posts: Mahamba (16 June 2012), Van Rooyenshek (16 June 2012), and Oshoek (30 June 2012). Duty Calls Watch List Comment closes on South Africa’s trade negotiation position with India on 15 June 2012. The proposed reduction in the rate of customs duty on AC generators (alternators) for which comment is due by 22 June 2012. The proposed withdrawal of Rebate Item 470.01/00.00/01.00 for which comment is due by 22 June 2012. The proposed increase in the rate of customs duty on frozen half shelled mussels, for which comment is due by 06 July 2012. The proposed review of the customs duties on salmon and trout for which comment is due by 20 July 2012.
