Forwarders’ association pushes for customs simplification

Zimbabwe’s Shipping and Forwarding Agents’ Association (SFAAZ), which represents all registered customs clearing agents in the country, is using its muscle to negotiate with government on behalf of the industry. According to chief executive officer Joseph Musariri, the 330-strong membership together “collect a lot of revenue on behalf of government”. “We are quite influential, and are seen in Parliament as the face of the industry,” he says. The association sets recommended tariffs for clearing and other services, and also ensures that members adhere to a code of conduct. Externally, the current focus is on customs, with a drive to standardise and simplify procedures. A breakthrough came when the 55-year-old SFAAZ changed tactics from being at “loggerheads to partners. “We are now making a difference in terms of policy,” he says, while warning that change comes slowly in government. Another focus is the infrastructure at border posts – where he believes progress is also being made. The association was well respected by the freight forwarders and customs agents interviewed by FTW, and also by sister associations across the continent. Musariri has been appointed the first president of the newly formed Federation of Clearing and Forwarding Agents of Southern Africa. He has been one of the driving forces behind the formation of the regional association, and sees its role as working with the customs offices of the different countries in the sub region to simplify and speed up customs procedures. SFAAZ is also involved in training, and organises diploma courses in customs clearing and freight forwarding.