'Modernisation' systems cause customs headaches at borders

A number of Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries have launched new customs modernisation systems to speed up the cross-border clearance processes. Instead, these have had the opposite effect, causing major delays as border officials struggle to keep up with demands of the new systems – and there is uncertainty around processes and regulations. This emerged as the number one pain point amongst industry members FTW spoke to about the challenges of cross-border trade. According to Alwyn Nel, MD at Kingfisher Freight, Zimbabwe recently introduced a verification system; the KM4 road terminal in Ressano Garcia, Mozambique was inaugurated earlier this year; and Zambia has implemented the new Asyworld customs clearance process – an upgrade to the outdated Asycuda software. “While these are certainly a step in the right direction in their stated goal of verifying products and expediting clearance, there was no prior assessment made as to how the new systems would add to the costs of doing business – needing to pay for independent verification of products for example – or how they would delay clearance while officials got to grips with the new system,” said Nel. He told FTW that these issues were being addressed, with trade bodies and associations seeking clarity. “Regrettably, answers aren’t always forthcoming,” said Nel. Johny Smith, CEO at the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG), noted that a lot of the delays were due to a lack of harmonisation of cross-border systems. “Progress has been made, but not fast enough to prevent ongoing delays at border posts.” Easyclear general manager, Michael Henning, commented that the biggest challenge for the logistics industry was to understand the complexities of the operational process and the customs procedures on the continent – particularly when transhipping. “Delays can be avoided by doing due diligence and ensuring the correct documentation is provided and rules and regulations are adhered to,” said Henning. Business development director for Beyond Africa Logistics Consultants, Ruth Butcher, added that the different interpretations of customs regulations often caused confusion and subsequent delays as well. “The language barriers at border posts can be an added complication, especially in Portuguese-speaking countries such as Angola and Mozambique. It’s best to have an agent on the ground who speaks the local language to ensure faster clearance of goods,” she said.