Saaff objects to ‘uninformed’ criticism

Our recent article – ‘Time to act against Durban port inefficiencies’ (FTW September 30, 2011) – attracted strong support from many quarters. While there is general industry consensus that Transnet’s service delivery and tariffs are of major concern to all SA users, the SA Association of Freight Forwarders took strong exception to the “uninformed and sweeping statement” by Freight 24’s Ayub Esoop that Saaff and the Durban Harbour Carriers’ Association were ineffective. Saaff CEO David Logan spelt out some recent Saaff achievements and current activity that demonstrate its constructive role: Saaff submitted • an objection to the Port Regulator to the proposed TNPA increase in cargo dues of + 11% last year. TNPA was subsequently awarded an increase of 4.49%. • Saaff is currently in the process of a submission via the PR objecting to the fees imposed by TNPA on amendments to cargo dues. • Saaff is currently in the process of formulating a submission together with two other organisations opposing the proposed 2012 increase of 18.06 % in cargo dues. • Saaff was instrumental in getting TPT to re-instate the free time for import containers from day of completion plus 2 to day of completion plus 3 in March this year. • Saaff has continually been involved with DAFF in ensuring that they allow five days after vessel sailing for the production of phytosanitary certificates – they have been trying to shorten this for a long time. The abovementioned activity only relates to Ports/Transnet. Saaff interacts with Sars Customs on modernisation continuously, not to mention the other Government departments.