Textile & Clothing Industry Development Programme On 16 May 2006 the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) published its “Rules and Procedures to the Interim Textile & Clothing Industry Development Programme (TCIDP) – for the export years April 1, 2005 to March 31, 2007”. The TCIDP is aimed at assisting the textile and clothing manufacturing industry to achieve efficiency on a par with international standards. This programme is conceptually similar to the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP). In order for a company to qualify as a participant in the TCIDP, it must meet certain training requirements and operating standards. As for any policy issues related to the TCIDP, it is the responsibility of Trade and Investment South Africa (TISA). If you are involved in the textile and clothing industry, in whatever capacity, you will need to take account of the provisions and requirements of the TICDP. No Tariff Amendments – 19 May 2006 Tariff Applications – Response Due The reduction in the rate of customs duty (duty) on match splints from the present rate of duty of 20% ad valorem to free of duty. The reduction in the rate of duty on beef food stock from its present rate of duty of 25% ad valorem to free of duty. The reduction in the rate of duty of floodlights and spotlights for the theatre, stage, television and film, and the creation of a special tariff dispensation for the products. Response due by 23 June 2006. The reduction in the rate of duty on preparations put up as salmon food from 20% ad valorem to free of duty. Response due by 25 May 2006. The increase in the rate of duty on tools of two or more put up in sets for retail sale from free of duty to 20% ad valorem. The rebate of the customs duty on other woven fabrics of synthetic fibres or the manufacture of headgear. Response due by 19 May 2006. No Trade Remedy Amendments – 19 May 2006 Trade Remedy Applications – Response Due Initiation of an investigation into the alleged dumping of chopped strand mats originating in or imported from Brazil or the People’s Republic of China (China). The application was lodged by Owens Corning South Africa (Pty) Ltd, the only manufacturer of this product in the South African Customs Union (SACU). The applicant alleges that it cannot compete with the low prices being charged by the importers and that the allegedly dumped products are causing it material injury. Response due by 19 June 2006. Initiation of a sunset review of the anti-dumping duties on acetaminophenol originating in or imported from India. The application was lodged by Fine Chemical Corporation (Pty) Ltd, the only manufacturer of the product in the SACU. The applicant alleges that the expiry of the anti-dumping duty would likely lead to the continuation or recurrence of dumping and material injury. Response due by 19 June 2006. No Rule Amendments – 19 May 2006
