Mallex Shipanga
The Trans Kalahari Corridor Secretariat (TKCS) has raised concerns over non-tariff barriers impacting trade at the Pioneer Gate and Skilpadshek border posts, which connect Botswana and South Africa.
Complaints about these barriers, which obstruct international trade, were submitted by clearing agents and transport operators.
The TKCS hosted a meeting on Tuesday where the institution addressed the complaints.
“The meeting noted several challenges that resulted in non-tariff barriers,” said the institution.
These challenges include capacity building, failure to pre-clear trucks, an increase in transit volumes, network challenges, and new updates.
During the meeting, the TKCS aimed to address the non-tariff barriers.
“Immediate strategies were devised and agreed upon to facilitate seamless trade at the TKC borders,” said the institution.
Truck-related strategies include pre-clearing all trucks that come to the border, stopping non-pre-cleared trucks in Zeerust, and turning away non-pre-cleared trucks at the border.
According to the TKCS, other strategies to address the non-tariff barriers will also be implemented.
Other strategies include establishing a transit desk, deploying human resources, giving priority to specific goods, and more.
The TKCS also has long-term strategies to address the non-tariff barriers in place.
Long-term strategies include establishing one-stop border posts on the TKC borders, implementing a regional cargo tracking system, and opening the border for 24 hours.
According to the TKCS, each long-term strategy is to be considered by member states of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
