Sars on 05 September 2016 released its xviii “Increased Customs and Excise Compliance Commitments” for its 2016/17 financial year.
For June 2016 (xvi) Initiate the single window concept with all relevant Government departments and relevant stakeholders, in line with World Customs Organisation (WCO) standards by 30 June 2016.
For August 2016 to (xviii) Re-establish the Customs and Excise Stakeholder forum by end of August 2016.
For September to (i) Deploy the new manifest processing system to replace the manifest acquittal system in line with new international cargo reporting and cargo management standards by September 2016; (x) Conclude the study that considers the introduction of a track-and-trace system with the cigarette industry and replace the old diamond stamp, in line with the World Health Organisation Convention for Tobacco Control, by the end of September 2016; and (xvii) Sars will develop and approve a Departmental Drug Plan by the end of September 2016.
For October 2016 to (vii) Review the quality framework for inspections, inclusive of physical and document inspections and table a recommendations report by end of October 2016; and (xii) Undertake an assessment of current customs and excise officers to determine skills gaps, which will inform the required training interventions by the end of October 2016.
Please let us know whether these commitments have been honoured. Your comments will be treated in confidence.