You have spoken and we are acting with speed, resilience and strategic intervention, in our resilient efforts to address the SAPS challenges, as we move ahead to drive the implementation of tangible solutions, that are essential to remedy the turbulent trade landscape, insofar as SAPS stops and the challenges associated therewith are concerned.
We have been aware of the myriad of SAPS related challenges, endemic to the KZN region. Of course, whenever we escalate a matter, we are requested to provide evidence thereof. These challenges can only be proven upon receipt of data to substantiate our narrative. Having said that, we extended a survey to you, our valued member, unfortunately, the responses we received were poor, a mere 18. We have circulated the surveys’ using the Google survey platform to ensure ease of accessibility and were disappointed with the low response, albeit we are appreciative of the input that has been received, we still believe that greater participation will assist us in constructing a comprehensive submission.
This paper contains a collective view from the private sector regarding SAPS stops which refers to Section 88(1)(a) and Section 881(b) of the Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964 (“the Customs Act”). It is noteworthy that this discussion point has been outstanding for longer than three (3) years. Furthermore, the issue relates to the SAPS utilising legislation from the Customs Act to detain cargo/shipments indefinitely without providing any reasonable grounds or reasons, leading to substantial additional costs to the already strained supply chain. The costs/charges are unrecoverable by the importer or exporter, as the legislative provision stipulates that the goods shall be stored at the cost of such an entity. The detrimental effect of these actions inflates the cost drastically even when there are no illegal or irregular grounds found.
The private sector questions the risk-profiling method used in determining stops made by SAPS. Furthermore, the private sector challenges the inspection expertise of officials in conducting these stops and warns against the unintended time delays and costs to the private sector. These considerations are especially pertinent when considering the current state of the national and international supply chain and the need for fluidity.
We assure you that your participation will not lead to “victimization” – let us as SAAFF, an industry association make your voice heard! We guarantee anonymity and treat all information as confidential, this is evident from our survey analysis as you would see when reviewing the enclosed attachments. SAAFF is indeed the APEX voice for the logistics, supply chain, freight forwarding and compliance industry and as such we endeavour to go above and beyond to address industry issues and in so doing add value to you, our most valued members.
We encourage you to engage with us via saaffcommunications@saaff.org.za and let us take continue, to consistently and constantly address your concerns, as we have been and as will continue to do in the future. We are also working proactively to troubleshoot anticipated problems so that we address these before it results in a challenge for our industry.
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Information Courtesy Of SAAFF.