'New Customs legislation to be welcomed'

South Africa’s new customs legislation has been long overdue and should be welcomed, says Reginald Moyo, general manager of training provider GLMS. “The new pieces of legislation are aimed at fully modernising customs in line with the Revised Kyoto Convention which aims to balance trade facilitation and control.” Whilst the new Customs Control Act 2014 and the Customs Duty Act 2014 have been the subject of much controversy, the legislation is also in line with the current trend towards global free trade while being cognisant of heightened international terrorism concerns. “Most developed economies are now placing an increased emphasis on border security, with customs playing a key role,” says Moyo. “There have been concerns that the new legislation could create delays, bottlenecks and congestion at the ports. This would result in astronomical costs to business.” At the same time, says Moyo, South Africa is the gateway to Africa. “And there is understanding that if the gateway gets clogged, investors will soon look elsewhere. GMLS has been part of the various teams that have presented these concerns to a parliamentary committee. The company also conducted research on these challenges for Nedlac.” According to Moyo change is not necessarily all bad and the new legislation should be welcomed. “Modernisation is a trend across Africa. Other African countries are also in the process of modernising their customs legislation,” he says. “Change as they say is the only constant in life. With the proliferation of new legislation and modernisation, new methods, procedures and technologies have to be embraced.” Moyo says South Africa, like other countries on the continent embarking on modernisation and new legislation, needs to pursue a fair and balanced approach. “Essentially one needs legislation that satisfies the essential needs of both trade and customs administrations.” INSERT & CAPTION Most developed economies are now placing an increased emphasis on border security, with customs playing a key role. – Reginald Moyo