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 Alarmingly, 93.6% of tariff codes carrying duties have not been reviewed in over 20 years, resulting in outdated protections that stifle competitiveness and increase costs for businesses and consumers.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 2025 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

What SA Retail Spending Trends Reveal About Consumers

Consumer panel expert Lané Klopper from NIQ South Africa unpacked how South Africans spent R683 billion on FMCG goods in 2025, with growth in traditional trade and smaller basket shopping reflecting financial pressure.
5 Mar 2PM 12 min

MultiChoice to Shut Down Showmax

MultiChoice has announced it will close Showmax after years of heavy investment and mounting losses. Business writer Mudiwa Gavaza explained the move reflects challenges in Africa’s streaming economics, rising content costs and strategic shifts under new ownership. MultiChoice to Shut Down Showmax: MultiChoice has announced it will close Showmax after…
5 Mar 2PM 26 min

FirstRand Posts Strong Results Amid Tough Economy

FirstRand delivered an 11% rise in normalised earnings to R23.2 billion for the six months to December 2025. CEO Mary Vilakazi said the performance was driven by solid momentum across FNB, RMB and WesBank, with diversified growth supporting returns.
5 Mar 2PM 13 min