Preferred trader programme to go live next year

The practical implementation of SA Revenue Services’ Preferred Trader Programme is on track for early next year when the first clients will be given formal status and associated benefits. It follows the success of the preferred trader pilot which saw the organisation working with more than 150 of the largest importers and exporters and their designated customs agents to improve their internal compliance, governance, systems and record-keeping. This was achieved with assistance from the Preferred Trader Audit teams located in each of the main administrative centres. The programme offers traders green lane benefits based on strict adherence to compliance criteria. At the end of November, Sars hosted a delegation from the European Commission as the first part of a three-phase approach to assist South Africa in developing the Customs Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme for trade, a Sars spokesman told FTW. “As part of the programme, Sars and the EC will host a joint AEO outreach forum with trade stakeholders in Durban to promote the AEO programme in South Africa and examine the requirements from Customs and trade stakeholders in developing strong partnerships to secure international supply chains,” according to a Sars statement. This will culminate in the final step – which will see the first crop of companies granted accreditation in early 2012. In addition, Customs is working with a trade working group to develop initiatives in electronic warehousing, excise and agent accreditation. “Sars has also had indications from the broader Sacu region of their plans to adopt the Preferred Trader and future AEO programmes in each country,” a spokesman said.