'Tighten up supply chain security'

KwaZulu-Natal freight forwarders and related stakeholders must embrace the global security paradigm shift to grow and ease future trade in demanding international markets. This is the view of recently nominated SA Association of Freight Forwarders (Saaff) KZN chairman, Lionel Dwyer, who said local businesses needed to keep abreast of the global governmental tightening up on freight security to ensure supply chains were adequately traceable and secure. “The Saaff KZN focus for the next couple of years is to make sure that our members understand this paradigm shift. For South Africa to participate in international trade, the South African Revenue Service (Sars) has to ensure compliance from local traders and economic operators to ensure that South African products have access to international markets,” Dwyer said. Dwyer said he expected Sars to exercise stricter control over local, national and international economic operators and their clients to ensure compliance with security regulations such as the Safe Framework of Standards. He noted that it was difficult for many operators to navigate the plethora of new global regulations as well as local legislative changes such as the introduction of the new Customs Control Act, and many other changes in the business environment. “Saaff KZN is active in various forums where issues impacting regional and national trade matters are concerned. Our local consultants and industry experts are very active. The role of Saaff KZN is to participate, collaborate and raise issues that are important to members,” Dwyer said. INSERT Sars has to ensure compliance from local traders and economic operators. – Lionel Dwyer