SAAFF Membership Benefits
Some members are unsure as to whether or not they should join regional chapters where they have branch offices once their membership of SAAFF National has been confirmed. One important reason for doing so is that SAAFF is an Association of members and it can only be as good as the contribution made by its members. This contribution may be in the form of representation on chapter committees; constructively assisting in resolving industry problems; sharing experiences, knowledge and skills; participating in industry events; and generally being a member of the industry team which SAAFF essentially is.
A second important reason is that the National and Regional bodies engage in different activities in their efforts to add value to members.
SAAFF National is principally involved in matters of national concern, examples of which are:
- Customs:
member's accreditation, container scanning, revisions to the Act ,
VAT Interpretation Note No.31, EDI paperless project,
introduction of the Single Administrative Document,
representing members at national Stakeholders forum meetings,
VAT deferment, procedures applicable to Industrial Development Zones
- NPA - introduction of penalties relating to Cargo Dues
- Introduction of Part 108 of the Civil Aviation Regulations
- Establishing the impact of legislation such as FAIS, FICA and the National Credit Act on our industry and expending funds with legal advisors to achieve this
- Having available a set of recommended trading conditions and expending funds with legal advisors to update these within the context of the prevailing business environment
- Expending funds to protect members against the effects of dominant and monopolistic
positions sought by shipping lines and other carriers
- Monitoring and maintaining contact with government bodies such as the Department of Health and the Textile & Clothing Division of the Department of Trade & Industry
- Representing members on bodies / committees such as the Shippers Council, the Air Cargo Operators' Committee, and SACOB.
SAAFF is the South African representative of FIATA and is responsible for the issue of FIATA Bills of Lading. As far as possible, SAAFF National attempts to monitor developments which are of interest to members and to keep members informed by way of regular circulars.
Examples of matters which would be dealt with at regional level are:
- Customs clearance delays at land borders, border police, anti-smuggling
- Airport Security at Johannesburg International Airport (OR Tambo)
- Cold storage facilities for perishable goods at Cape Town Harbour
- Congestion at the Durban Container Terminal and issues relating to Harbour Carriers
- Performance levels at the City Deep Terminal in Johannesburg
- Attendance at regional Stakeholders' forum meetings with Customs
- Performance of service providers - Customs, NPA, SA Port Operations
- Developments such as Coega in PE, IDZ's in East London, and the new international airport north of Durban
Each chapter will issue its own circulars with information pertinent to its area and its regional members. A regional member gains the benefit of having a say in regional affairs. Where possible and appropriate, SAAFF National will assist the regional chapters and vice versa.
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