Import duty report reveals mounting inefficiencies hurting SA’s trade system.

Loading player...
GUEST – Donald MacKay, CEO of XA Global Trade Advisors



XA Global Trade Advisors has released its seventh Import Duty Investigation Report, highlighting mounting inefficiencies in South Africa’s tariff system, growing backlogs, and the rise of so-called “zombie tariffs” that linger for years without resolution.



The report reveals that tariff investigations meant to conclude within four to six months are now taking an average of 27 months, with some cases unresolved for as long as 64 months. Alarmingly, 93.6% of tariff codes carrying duties have not been reviewed in over 20 years, resulting in outdated protections that stifle competitiveness and increase costs for businesses and consumers.
23 Sep 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

Whisky Live 2025: A Toast to South Africa’s Whisky Legend, Andy Watts

GUEST: Andy Watts – Owner, The Watts Whisky Company At this year’s Whisky Live Festival, whisky lovers gathered to celebrate craftsmanship, innovation, and legacy, and few embody all three quite like Andy Watts, one of South Africa’s most decorated whisky masters. Known globally for his work with Bain’s Cape Mountain…
13 Nov 3PM 17 min

Whisky Live 2025: Lighting Up Africa’s Luxury Scene — The Story of Bongani Cigars

GUEST: Kamal Moukheiber – Founder, Bongani Cigars At this year’s Whisky Live Festival, whisky wasn’t the only thing drawing admiration. Amid the clinking glasses and smoky notes, one African brand stood out, Bongani Cigars, Africa’s first premium cigar brand redefining luxury from the continent outward. Founder Kamal Moukheiber joins us…
13 Nov 3PM 14 min

G20 Focus: Transforming Cross-Border Payments for a More Inclusive Global Economy

GUEST: Tshegofatso Modisakeng – Product Growth Manager, FNB Forex The G20 has set an ambitious goal, to make cross-border payments faster, cheaper, more transparent, and more inclusive. For many across emerging markets, this isn’t just about convenience; it’s about access, inclusion, and opportunity. In this conversation, FNB’s Tshegofatso Modisakeng joins…
13 Nov 3PM 8 min