Resolved complaints

Showing items 281 to 300 of 855
Complaint number NTB Type
Category 1. Government participation in trade & restrictive practices tolerated by governments
Category 2. Customs and administrative entry procedures
Category 5. Specific limitations
Category 6. Charges on imports
Category 7. Other procedural problems
Category 8. Transport, Clearing and Forwarding
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Date of incident Location
COMESA
EAC
SADC
Reporting country or region (additional)
COMESA
EAC
SADC
Status Actions
NTB-000-694 2.8. Lengthy and costly customs clearance procedures 2016-05-10 South Africa: OR Tambo International Airport Lesotho Resolved
2016-05-17
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Complaint: The South African Revenue Authority ( SARS) are delaying release of goods imported through OR Tambo airport . SARs has detained ur goods for seven days now since 10th May without an explanation. It is the second time that the goods we are importing for business are detained at OR Tambo by Customs. The goods arrived on 10 May 2016, and they are still not released by today 17 May 2016. We are concerned that SARS may demand us to pay for storage and yet we do not understand why Customs has detained the goods for this long? My company has already lost revenue and missed on opportunity to sell and the demand for storage payment will cripple our business? We therefore request that SARS expedites release of our goods .  
Resolution status note: The consignment was identified by SARS Case selection for inspection by the Customs Border Control Unit and subsequent to the inspection, the consignment was detained for proof of payment, original invoice and also to verify the importer’s code. Due to the Master Airway Bill stating final destination as Johannesburg (refer to Airway Bill attached under Airport of Destination), it was difficult for the inspection team to identify if the goods were in transit. This was only discovered after the client informed SARS that the goods in question was an RIT entry to Lesotho.

After the client informed SARS of the status of the consignment, the goods were then released on 17 May 2015

Our advise going forward is that in order to avoid future delays, the documents should clearly state the final destination as Maseru, Lesotho.
 
NTB-000-722 2.8. Lengthy and costly customs clearance procedures 2016-08-29 South Africa: OR Tambo International Airport Lesotho Resolved
2016-11-25
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Complaint: The South African Revenue Services at OR Tambo have detained consignment destined for Maseru since 29 August 2016 without explanation. This is yet another time when our goods are detained for more than a week and yet they are destined for Lesotho and not South Africa. The airway bill clearly has the address of the importer being in Lesotho but South African Customs detains the goods nonetheless. South African Customs is requested to explain the rationale for detaining goods destined for other countries , in this case Lesotho and whether it is lawful that goods which arrived on 29 August are still detained?  
Resolution status note: Dear Focal Points South Africa and Lesotho,

This issue was resolved long time ago. However, the SADC secretariat recommended that a long term solution be secured that responds to such questions as asked by Lesotho on above comment. You are kindly requested to recommend a way forward on the long term solutions. Otherwise we need to resolve this NTB as per current status . South Africa Focal point is of the view that we resolve it and I agree. This NTB is therefore resolved on the understanding that the Focal Points of Lesotho and South Africa will make necessary arrangements to ensure that the problem does not repeat itself in future now that it has been identified.

System administrator
 
NTB-000-878 2.8. Lengthy and costly customs clearance procedures 2019-01-29 South Africa: Maseru Bridge Lesotho Resolved
2019-02-01
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Complaint: We are experiencing delays by SARS customs who are taking time to inspect our container that is in transit. The delay is causing difficulties to meet the vessel to carry the shipment as it will be closing on Thursday 31st January at 06:00am and we are running out of time.  
Resolution status note: This NTB was resolved too late and the consignment missed the vessel thereby adding to transport costs. Lesotho reported that:
1. The inspection took long resulting in the consignment missing the vessel in Durban Harbour; trader incurred additional costs by taking the consignment to Cape Town instead of Durban; and
2. the congsinor was charged provisional payments upon the release of the consignment.

Lesotho observed that SARS treatment of Lesotho transit goods compromises prospects of Lesotho's international trade opportunities as the country seeks to expand and diversify both products and markets to contribute to economic growth and poverty reductionNTB Focal Point in South Africa are requested to assist in clarifying the situation on inspection with SARS at Maseru Border Post to expedite the process.
 
NTB-000-895 8.8. Issues related to transit 2019-08-08 South Africa: Durban sea Port Lesotho Resolved
2020-02-25
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Complaint: Container been detention for physical exam for too long now, which will delay our exports. The requested documents were provided long time.  
Resolution status note: On 25 Februaru 2020, Lesotho Focal Point reported that the complaint had confirmed that the container had been released  
NTB-000-894 3. Technical barriers to trade (TBT)
B9: TBT Measures n.e.s.
2019-05-14 South Africa: Maseru Bridge Lesotho Resolved
2019-05-22
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Complaint: SARS inspection process takes too long thereby delaying transit of goods destined for the Port. TZICC Clothing Manufacture, requesting SARS to expedite clearance of their declaration which was done last May 14, 2019. The container has not been cleared as at Wednesday 22 May 2019 our Container has not been release yet. The Export Container is going to United States of America and there is a schedule that the company need to meet specially the vessel Stack Dates in Durban. Case # 313253631 was pending since Wednesday and it took so long for SARS to answer or response on the query. 1st we do the VOC 2nd they ask for the Sales Contract 3rd they ask for the Provisional Payment amounting R28866.87 which was already done paying Friday 17 May 2019, everything was uploaded on Friday but SARS has not responded as on 22 May 2019. TZICC are not in a position to know what is going on as SARS are not answering on the system.

This container will cost a lot if the consignment misses the vessel again in Capetown just because of SARS Customs.
 
Resolution status note: On 22 May 2019, South Africa Focal Point reported that discrepancies that were picked up which resulted in the delay of the declared consignment were rectified. The case has been finalised and released.  
NTB-001-117 2.10. Inadequate or unreasonable customs procedures and charges 2023-05-02 South Africa: Maseru Bridge Lesotho Resolved
2024-05-31
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Complaint: We have done trade with Eswatini for 33 years and tried to be fully compliant with SARS, but they keep changing the rules and moving the goal posts. We have paid R709,000-00 in provisional VAT taxes that have not been returned to my Company via our clearing agent, Kayhil Freight. Kayhil Freight says that SARS is not processing the acquittal documents and paying them. I do not know who is telling the truth, but we remain short on cash flow by R709,000-00 despite submitting each acquittal on time and without fault. SARS officials are now insisting on Removal in Bond licenses for us to use our own vehicles to deliver to customers in Eswatini, and as such we are not allowed to cross the border. We have been charged Penalties, despite trying to follow the rules imposed by SARS. Please help us we are desperate.  
Resolution status note: Lesotho Focal Point reported that the NTB had been resolved successfully  
Products: 3003.90: Medicaments consisting of two or more constituents mixed together for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, not in measured doses or put up for retail sale (excl. antibiotics containing hormones or steroids used as hormones, but not containing antibiotics, al  
NTB-001-144 2.13. Issues related to Pre-Shipment Inspections 2023-11-10 South Africa: Durban sea Port Lesotho Resolved
2024-05-31
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Complaint: The Release Documents is 7 days prior to vessel arrival because of cargo dues and upon receiving Arrival Notice. The EDI document was sent for release on the 9th of November 2023 the query came in on the 10th of November 2023, and normally it would be released in less than 6 hours but up to date it hasn't been released. We need the import urgently to be released in order to avoid any delays with our Export Orders.  
Resolution status note: Lesotho Focal Point reported that the NTB had been resolved successfully  
Products: 6006.32: Dyed fabrics, knitted or crocheted, of synthetic fibres, of a width of > 30 cm (excl. warp knit fabrics "incl. those made on galloon knitting machines", those containing by weight >= 5% of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread, and pile fabrics, incl. "long and 6006.34: Printed fabrics, knitted or crocheted, of synthetic fibres, of a width of > 30 cm (excl. warp knit fabrics "incl. those made on galloon knitting machines", those containing by weight >= 5% of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread, and pile fabrics, incl. "lo  
NTB-001-148 1.9. Determination of eligibility of an exporting country by the importing country 2023-11-23 South Africa: Durban sea Port Lesotho Resolved
2024-05-31
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Complaint: Pls kindly see below containers that are to be stopped by SARS.
1. MSKU0755208(Case No.: 480816390), vessel will berth on 27/11
2. MRKU3124436(Case No.: 480819630), vessel will berth on 27/11
3. NYKU4442550(Case No.: 480020360), vessel will berth on 3/12
4. BSIU9818016 (Case No.: 480069900),vessel will berth on 3/12

As you know all vessels delayed so long more than 1 month. Our productions are waiting for the materials. We urgently need all the materials for the garments of export. Pls urgently help to release all these containers.
Highly appreciated
 
Resolution status note: Lesotho Focal Point reported that the NTB had been resolved successfully  
Products: 6003.30: Knitted or crocheted fabrics of synthetic fibres, of a width of <= 30 cm (excl. those containing by weight >= 5% of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread, and pile fabrics, incl. "long pile", looped pile fabrics, labels, badges and similar articles, knitted  
NTB-001-149 1.9. Determination of eligibility of an exporting country by the importing country 2023-11-24 South Africa: Durban sea Port Lesotho Resolved
2024-04-04
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Complaint: Pls see below container No. which is to be stopped by Sars.
RSU6006851 Case No.: 480928296 Vessel will berth on 27/11

As you know all vessels in Durban delayed so long more than one month. There are Fabric and Accessaries in this container. We urgently need the Fabric and Accessaries from our import containers for export. Pls kindly urgently help to release the container.
Highly appreciated
 
Resolution status note: Good day,

This issue is resolved. Kindly mark it as resolved.

Kind Regards,
Rendani
 
Products: 6003.30: Knitted or crocheted fabrics of synthetic fibres, of a width of <= 30 cm (excl. those containing by weight >= 5% of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread, and pile fabrics, incl. "long pile", looped pile fabrics, labels, badges and similar articles, knitted  
NTB-001-164 8.8. Issues related to transit 2024-04-26 Mozambique: Lesotho Resolved
2024-08-01
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Complaint: I was about to clear my stuff by the Border at Komatiport or Lebombo border post when the Police man of Mozambique by the name of Maphosa asked me to check my truck then asked for papers for the vehicle, my license, car insurance and important documents on my file, I gave him everything he wanted. He said I should clear my stuff and come back to him.
I went for clearing but then I was asked to bring truck papers and license, at that time Maphosa was no where to be found, I asked some police men about him but they said he is in Maputo and I have to go back to Maputo to fetch my things at the police station but never mentioning which police station should I go to, I had to leave all my goods at alfandegars storeroom which is renting even now.
I drove back to Lesotho without my license and some documents and luggages because the clearing could not be completed since the truck papers and my license were not available due to that Police officer.
 
Resolution status note: The driving licence has been returned to the owner.  
NTB-000-303 2.7. International taxes and charges levied on imports and other tariff measures 2009-09-09 South Africa: Department of Trade and Industry Madagascar Resolved
2010-07-22
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Complaint: Complex tariff and other import tax structure  
Resolution status note: South Africa reported that both countries are members of SADC hence SADC tariff reduction schedules apply  
NTB-000-299 5.12. Export restraint arrangements
Policy/Regulatory
2009-09-09 Madagascar: Ministry of Trade Madagascar Resolved
2011-03-11
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Complaint: Government imposes export constraints on the exportation of wood  
Resolution status note: This is a measure to safeguard the environment. The elimination of non-tariff barriers will be done gradually.
 
NTB-000-300 5.12. Export restraint arrangements
Policy/Regulatory
2009-09-09 Madagascar: Ministry of Trade Madagascar Resolved
2010-07-26
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Complaint: Government imposes export constraints on the exportation of wood  
NTB-000-301 5.3. Export taxes
Policy/Regulatory
2009-09-09 Madagascar: Department of Customs Madagascar Resolved
2010-07-26
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Complaint: Royalty levy of 1,5% is charged exports of transformed wood  
Resolution status note: This is a measure to safeguard the environment. The elimination of non-tariff barriers will be done gradually.
 
NTB-000-172 2.8. Lengthy and costly customs clearance procedures 2009-07-27 Malawi: Dedza Malawi Resolved
2016-08-24
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Complaint: cumbersome and bureaucratic delays encountered in the processing of documentation and clearing of goods at the border posts.  
Resolution status note: Malawi reported that she had established trade facilitation tools e.g. Development of OSBPs with Zambia,( Muchinji/Mwami) and Tanzania. Draft agreements have been Mozambique and Malawi were now awaiting Official signing at Ministerial level. Malawi has also developed a one stop Malawi Trade portal with all legal regulations and procedures for all institutions in Malawi that deal with trade in goods. All trade and business related forms and procedures for the respective institutions can be dowloaded from the trade portal.  
NTB-000-167 7.9. Inadequate trade related infrastructure 2009-07-27 Malawi: Malawi Revenue Authority Malawi Resolved
2010-07-22
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Complaint: Border delays including irregular border hours  
Resolution status note: Malawi reported that border operating hours are now harmonized and synchronized across borders in Malawi. Malawi now moving to 24hrs.  
NTB-000-168 5.1. Quantitative restrictions 2009-07-27 Mauritius: Ministry of Trade Malawi Resolved
2012-03-30
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Complaint: Import restrictions on sugar  
Resolution status note: At the last NTB meeting in March 2011, Mauritius informed the meeting that import restrictions on sugar in Mauritius have been lifted  
NTB-000-174 1.1. Export subsidies
A82: Testing requirement
2009-07-27 Malawi: Malawi Revenue Authority Malawi Resolved
2012-04-26
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Complaint: Time taken to test products varies between five days for meat and poultry to ten days for batteries. The time factor and discretionary use of these services at the borders has lead to delays in the distribution.  
Resolution status note: At the 3rd meeting the Tripartite NTBs Focal Points and NMC Chairs held in Dar -es-Salaam on 19-20 April 2012, Malawi reported that the delays could be attributed to the practice of some importers who do not obtain prior certification of products before importing. For importation of meat products, SPS certification has to be obtained from Ministry of Agriculture before importing to avoid delays at the border. The same applies to importation of batteries. Import permit must be obtained from ministry of Trade before importation. The meeting accepted Malawi’s submission to have this NTB resolved.  
NTB-000-183 5.12. Export restraint arrangements 2009-07-27 Malawi: Ministry of Trade Malawi Resolved
2010-07-22
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Complaint: Export restraint on Unmanufactured tobacco  
Resolution status note: This is no longer obtaining  
NTB-000-190 7.9. Inadequate trade related infrastructure
Policy/Regulatory
2009-07-27 SADC Malawi Resolved
2011-01-10
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Complaint: Inconsistency of road traffic laws, and their application in SADC.  
Resolution status note: Botswana reported that ahe is in the process of harmonizing traffic laws with SADC traffic laws; however, there are some traffic laws that have been harmonized e.g. road signs etc.  
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