5 Reasons why regulated imports need to be controlled
The importation of all goods, whether new, used or second-hand, is subject to control measures.
On 1 June 2003, the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) was established in South Africa through an Act of Parliament. ITAC’s main function is to enhance the economic growth and development of the continent and to establish an efficient and effective system for the administration of international trade. Their core functions include tariff investigations, trade remedies and import and export control.
The Minister of Trade, in cooperation with ITAC may, by notice, exercise their authority to control imports. They do it by prescribing that no goods of a specified class or kind, or no goods other than goods of a specified class or kind may be (a) imported into the Republic or (b) exported out of the Republic, except under the authority of, and in accordance with the conditions stated in a permit issued by the Commission.
Distinction of Imported Goods
In the Act of Import and Export Control a distinction is made between the importations of new goods on the one hand; and used, second-hand goods, waste and scrap on the other hand.
To adequately control new goods, set tariff sub-headings are dependent on import control measures. Tariff headings the imply regulated imports include fish and fish products, oils and other fossil fuels, inorganic acids, radio-active chemical elements, hydrocarbons, tyres, base metals, fire-arms and ammunition, gambling machines and other miscellaneous chemicals, ethers and carboxylic acids.
All used and second hand or used goods are considered regulated imports.
So what is the purpose of controlling regulated imports?
1). To ensure that used and second hand goods do not erode the manufacturing SACU industry and the job opportunities in this industry
One of the reasons why import control is so important is because goods manufactured in other countries should not subtract from South Africa’s ability to produce items that will foster economic growth and development. South Africa still needs to regulate and improve the overall employment in the country, raise incomes and promote foreign investments.
2). To ensure that industry sensitive goods are imported in a regulated manner
Hazardous products need to be imported in such a way that it won’t cause any harm to the public or endanger people. Similarly any products or raw materials that might cause damage to the environment and our natural resources need to be regulated.
3). To assist agencies with the enforcement of other legislation such as safety
Items such as fire-arms or weapons, for example, need to be regulated in order to reinforce general legislation which permits South Africans to carry fire-arms only if they have a license.
