On 15 May 2015 the South African Revenue Service (Sars) announced the imposition of provisional payments (provisional anti-dumping duties) on Portland cement, classifiable under tariff subheading 2523.29, imported from or originating in Pakistan. The provisional payments were imposed up to and including 13 November 2015.
Five rates of provisional payments were imposed, dependent on the manufacturer or producer of the cement. The respective rates of provisional payment are (i) Portland Cement manufactured or produced by Lucky Cement Limited (14.29%); (ii) Portland Cement manufactured or produced by Bestway Cement Limited (77.15%); (iii) Portland Cement manufactured or produced by D.G Khan Cement Limited (68.87%); (iv) Portland Cement manufactured or produced by Attock Pakistan Cement Limited (63.53%); and (v) Portland Cement (excluding that manufactured or produced by Lucky Cement Limited, Bestway Cement Limited, D.G Khan Cement Limited, Attock Pakistan Cement Limited (62.69%).
Though we have not had sight of the International Trade Administration of South Africa (Itac) letter to interested parties, it is expected – based on past experience – that interested parties will have until 22 June 2015 to comment on Itac’s provisional recommendation. Itac’s reasoning for its recommendation will be contained in its report which has yet to be released.
