Old freight forwarders never die – they just go grey and become directors of Saaff. Clearly a majority perception, but very far from the truth. “Doesn’t Saaff stand for the Society of Alzheimers and Aged Freight Forwarders? “Isn’t this an old boys’club run by a bunch of dithering idiots who meet behind closed doors, adjusting their hearing aids to share war stories while sipping their gin and tonics?” No, Saaff is run by a dynamic, skilled team of people, passionate about their work, who provide valuable services for the freight forwarding fraternity. “So why don’t you tell us what you do?” Hmmm … communicate with members – now there’s a novel idea.” How many of you are aware of the draft new Customs Control Bill? Ok, but how many of you have actually read it? Well John Saaff on the move heard over the airwaves White has. All 461 pages of it. John has submitted comments to Sars on behalf of the industry, and while this is only in draft stage, the proposed changes are numerous and significant. Are you affected? Well I can tell you this – every customs clearing agent needs to know what is in store for them. How many agents are aware of Tony D’Almeida’s tireless efforts on the training front? Then there’s Dave Watts who diligently attends to matters maritime and Africa regional. Dave advises there is an upcoming SADC Customs modernisation and trade facilitation project on the implementation of the SADC rules of origin. Keith Horn spearheads the supply chain initiative and provides awareness sessions to interested parties on the latest developments in integration and collaboration between supply chain partners. Incidentally the AGM of Saaff, which will feature presentations on the Consumer Protection Act, the draft Customs Bill and the restructuring of Saaff, is scheduled for April 29. This is one AGM not to be missed. Watch out for further industry updates heard over the airwaves
