SARS acts decisively to minimise delays for expo-bound cargo

Kevin Mayhew THE SOUTH African Revenue Service’s efforts at Johannesburg International Airport during the recent Rand Show have been lauded, with staff increased to minimise delays as they checked for counterfeit goods destined for the show. Marketing manager of United Links SA, Tammy Seita, said the extra staff were drafted in from other areas in the country to maintain service levels before and during the Gauteng showcase. Seita has noticed a greater customs emphasis in the run-up to shows as the authorities exercise more vigilance to uphold international copyright laws and brand integrity by intercepting imitation goods. “We experienced the same problem during a major motor show in Durban earlier this year where there was a lot of potential brand name counterfeiting and the authorities had to take focused action to check exhibits,” she said. In the past problems have been experienced with clearances associated with such focused action which creates delays and can incur demurrage charges, she explained.