'Saaff offers smaller agents a voice in customs penalty issue'

I REFER to your recent coverage of customs penalties, specifically the letter from "Small Agent" regarding the imposition of unreasonable penalties for simple clerical errors (FTW October 11, 2002). SAAFF has on numerous occasions addressed the question of penalties with Customs, particularly in cases where there was no actual or potential effect on the fiscus, as your correspondent describes. Customs have been made well aware that SAAFF, representing all C&F agents, believes that unreasonably high penalties and fines for simple clerical errors are neither fair nor reasonable and we will continue addressing this matter during our regular meetings with SARS. Our current understanding is that Customs are addressing the issue of penalties and we are hoping that a more reasonable approach to penalty imposition will result. We were very disappointed to read "Small Agent's" final comments where he states, "smaller agents have no voice via SAAFF". Approximately 80% of SAAFF members have a staff complement of less than 20. The Association encourages smaller companies to join and become involved in its activities. Any member, regardless of size, is entitled to attend meetings and raise matters of concern which will be addressed. If "Small Agent" is a member he should address his problems directly with his regional association which will attempt to assist. If he is not, he should join and enjoy the benefits available. Dave Watts, executive, SAAFF/KZN