Madam Deputy Speaker, the One Stop Border Post Policy states that “[T]he high-volume commercial activity at certain land ports of entry has become a major obstacle to national and regional economic development and security. Modernising key land ports of entry is a strategic priority and an economic necessity. The increased cross-border movement of people, goods and conveyances between South Africa and her neighbours has led to congestion and lengthy delays which we see daily at South Africa’s ports of entry. The One Stop Border Post Bill will enable goods, people and vehicles to stop at a single facility to undergo the necessary checks and controls. This is a move away from the traditional two-stop border post concept.”
The ACDP supports the goal of efficient border operations to protect South Africa’s economic and security interests a set out in the Bill.
We are fully aware that during public hearings, Clause 6 drew criticism for potentially enabling the misuse of exemptions for official goods, especially in the context of widespread corruption. This, we understand, has now been largely amended and improved.
What is important is that the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA) which represents over 9 000 members, contributes over R1 trillion annually to South Africa’s GDP, and employs more than 3.5 million people, stated its concerns that illicit and counterfeit trade affects numerous sectors, including alcohol, tobacco, foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, mining, and agrichemicals. It estimates that it costs the economy approximately R100 billion annually, with a daily loss of R250 million. It is shocking that the Council estimates that 60% of tobacco and 22% of alcohol in South Africa are illicit, and this illicit trade presents serious health risks and contributes to corruption, money laundering, and terrorism financing.
Madam Deputy Speaker, we’ve just been removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FTAF) greylist. It is crucial that these concerns expressed by the Consumer Goods Council must be addressed to avoid us being placed on the greylist again.
Whilst the ACDP supports this Bill, the challenge comes with its implementation and to ensure that law enforcement by SARS, by the BMA, and the SANDF, is given sufficient resources.
The ACDP agrees that the SAPS border budget must be transferred to the BMA. We can have the very best laws – but the challenge comes with effective implementation.
Madam Deputy Speaker, the ACDP will support the Bill, trusting that additional resources will be given to ensure that our borders are sufficiently safeguarded.
I thank you.
