Sars introduces strict customs controls for protected SA timber
Sars acting spokesperson Sicelo Mkosi said all customs declarations, including mukula wood, would be subjected to the necessary customs controls in the event that the goods are declared incorrectly.
“Transit cargo, into the neighbouring countries, is generally not selected for inspection in the interests of facilitating trade,” Mkosi said. “However, in instances where a risk has been identified, customs will intervene in terms of an enforcement action.
“Further note that the Sars Customs is participating in Operation Sesha (derived from Seshachalam forest). This programme is an international operation endorsed by the World Customs Organisation aimed at curbing the cross-border trafficking of protected flora. Operation Sesha is specifically tackling the illegal timber trade.” Mukula is a rare African tree and one of the rosewood species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites).
Sars administers certain prohibitions or restrictions in terms of section 113(8)(a) of the Customs and Excise Act on behalf of a number of government departments, institutions or bodies.
Source: iol.co.za
