Record Trade Surplus for September 2009 A R3.87 billion surplus was recorded for September 2009. Exports accounted for R45.53 billion and imports R41.66 billion, which resulted in a surplus. The August to September change in imports reflected decreases mainly in: (i) mineral products; and (ii) machinery and mechanical appliances and electrical machinery and equipment. The change in exports reflected increases mainly in: (i) precious and semi-precious stones and metals; (ii) base metals and articles thereof; and (iii) vehicles, aircraft and vessels. Promoting Dialogue On Trade Reform Forum The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) in collaboration with University of Cape Town (UCT) Graduate School of Business, Business Leadership SA and Business Unity South Africa invites you to a public forum on: ‘Promoting Dialogue on Trade Reform in South Africa.’ The Forum is scheduled for November 9 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Customs Administrative Monetary Penalty System The Discussion Document on Customs Administrative Monetary Penalty System has been published for public comment by 20 November 2009. Tariff Amendments to the Television Industry On 30 October 2009 tariff amendments were published in respect of the television industry which related to the deletion and insertion of tariff subheadings in order to distinguish between cathoderay tube (CRT) and televisions with screens other than CRT technology. In addition a Rebate Item has been deleted and the rebate provision has been revised to support both Semi-Knocked Down (SKD) and Completely Knocked Down (CKD) assemblers of television receivers incorporating a screen other than CRT technology. Cotton Rebate Provision is made for a temporary rebate of the full customs duty on cotton, not carded or combed at such times, in such quantities and subject to such conditions as the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) may allow by specific permit. Administrative Monetary Penalty System The Discussion Document on Excise Administrative Monetary Penalty System has been published for public comment by 20 November 2009. Trade Remedy Application – Picks All interested parties are invited to provide written comment, which is due by 20 November 2009 in respect of the initiation of an investigation into the alleged dumping of picks originating in or imported from India. Tariff Application – Paint Balls All interested parties are invited to provide written comment, which is due by November 20, in respect of the rebate of the full customs duty on polyether – polyols, containing 2 or more hydrxyl groups, liquids or pastes, with a hydroxyl number exceeding 100mg KOH/g but not exceeding 800mg KOH/ gat, which is used in the manufacture of paint balls.
