The Freight and Customs Clearing Agents Association of Botswana has increasingly become a mediator between the private sector and customs, according to its chairman Lucas Barreto. “The Association has established a task force that regularly meets with customs to discuss issues that have arisen and to try to find solutions to the challenges that the private sector experiences.” According to Barreto, dealing with customs is challenging no matter where one is in the world, but in Botswana the fact that executive or legal decisions take time to filter through to the ground is one of the biggest headaches. “It takes time to implement changes or decisions that have been made. So, for example, several countries in the region will agree to do something but this will not be implemented immediately as would be the case in South Africa maybe. It takes time for changes to be made practically despite the law already being in place or the agreement signed.” He said in this regard the Association worked closely with customs to make sure that there was a better understanding between all parties. This to try to effect change more quickly after a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed or new laws implemented. “Like many of our neighbouring countries we want to see growth in Botswana and we understand what that requires. We need our customs officials to work with us to ensure we see that growth. We have to overcome the red tape and cumbersome processes and have sleek, efficient systems in place that encourage trade. That is a major focus for us as an association.” Barreto said another area that was gaining traction was the call for infrastructure. “New corridors are being developed all the time. At the same time there is a renewed focus on rail with construction of the new line between Botswana and Namibia expected to start soon.” Barreto said African countries like Botswana were realising more and more how important infrastructure was and there were definite attempts to bring about change in this regard. “By upgrading and improving our infrastructure we will boost imports and the f low of cargo will improve dramatically. At the same time it will bring down the excessively high cost of logistics in southern Africa.” For Barreto the goals are clear. “Ultimately it is all about growing Botswana business and taking up the opportunities that are on offer in the current African boom time environment. If we do not do it now, we will lose out completely.” INSERT There is a renewed focus on rail with construction of the new line between Botswana and Namibia expected to start soon.
