Input sought for Mercosur free trade pact

Alan Peat THE SIGNING of a free trade agreement between the Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU) and the Southern Cone Market (MERCOSUR) has taken a further step forward. According to Calvin Phume, team assistant at the NEPAD directorate in the international trade and economic development division of the Department of Trade & Industry (DoT&I), this deal with Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay is being pursued. “The DoT&I is seeking input from the SA public on their interests in the MERCOSUR market,” he told FTW, “ “In particular, we seek to develop a list of products in which we would request enhanced access into the MERCOSUR market through a reduction of tariffs.” At the same time, SACU will receive requests to open its market for exports from the potential trade partners. “In order to respond to such requests,” said Phume, “the DoT&I will require inputs from the public on areas of concern in this regard.” Until March 30, submissions from industry, labour and the general public can be addressed to Phume at: Fax: (012) 322-0355 or e-mail: cphume@dti.pwv.gov.za Further information on the FTA as the DoT&I currently envisages it is available from Tsidiso Disenyana: Tel.- (012) 310-9935 or e-mail: tsidisod@dti.pwv.gov.za