The department’s Export Support Desk has been set up to help companies affected by tariffs to navigate compliance and find alternative markets. From Moneyweb.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has hit the ground running with its Export Support Desk, which intends to help SA companies hit by new US tariffs find alternative markets and provide guidance on market entry processes.
It’s still early days, so the effectiveness of the desk remains to be seen. What impressed us was the speed with which the dtic responded to Moneyweb’s requests for further information.
This is part of a package of measures intended to cushion local companies from higher US tariffs on SA, announced earlier this month, which will hit vehicles, steel and aluminium, and agricultural products the hardest.
Relaxed competition rules
Another proposed initiative aimed at softening the blow of higher tariffs is relaxed rules on competitive behaviour, something companies have long advocated for.
Bloomberg reports that new dtic regulations, issued for public comment this week, would allow exporters to coordinate and share shipping and market costs, as well as collaborate on the building of export infrastructure.
Competitors would also be allowed to jointly negotiate export protocols. Any such collaboration, however, would require approval from SA’s competition authorities.
While mitigation measures have been put in place, the SA government says it continues to engage with the US in pursuit of a deal that advances the interests of both countries.
Export Support Desk
The dtic’s Export Support Desk says it is able to provide updates on trade and tariff developments, advice on alternative markets, guidance on market entry processes, insights on compliance requirements, as well as linkages to South African embassies and high commissions abroad.
“Exporters are encouraged to engage with the dtic’s regional desks responsible for Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East to explore opportunities in emerging and untapped markets,” says the department.
Below are some of the services offered by the Export Support Desk.
Market entry
The desk offers market intelligence, and customer and partner introductions. It has recruited marketing officers to handhold exporters through the various export processes, provide market insights, trade and investment opportunities, and reach out to local businesses and government stakeholders.
EMIA participation scheme
Through the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) scheme, the dtic provides financial support to exporters for market research and to explore new opportunities abroad.
Also covered under the EMIA scheme is access to international trade fairs and outward selling missions.
Trade negotiations and government-to-government engagements
The dtic’s Trade Branch represents SA’s trade interests by participating in bilateral and multilateral negotiations, designed to enhance market access and promote fair, rules-based trade.
The branch focuses on identifying, addressing, and ultimately removing tariff and non-tariff barriers that impede SA exports, particularly in key growth sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and value-added goods.
It is also involved in helping to resolve trade disputes, align regulatory standards, and promote mutual economic interests. This is particularly useful for companies encountering trade disputes and unfair practices abroad.
Compliance support
The Export Support Desk is set up to smooth the export process by providing information on compliance matters. Additionally, there are regional export desks and other line function departments providing tailored, country-specific information.
Below are some market-specific compliance requirements provided by the desk.
Citrus exports
Exporters of citrus must meet stringent phytosanitary (plant health) requirements, particularly for markets impacted by Citrus Black Spot (CBS) concerns, such as the European Union. These include:
- Adherence to CBS phytosanitary protocols, including orchard inspections and fungicide treatment schedules.
- Cold chain compliance, ensuring fruit is kept at prescribed temperatures during transport to prevent pest spread.
- Pre-shipment inspections by the Department of Agriculture.
- Registration with the relevant plant authority.
Wine exports
The desk is able to assist SA wine exporters in meeting market-specific regulatory, labelling, and documentation requirements, including:
- Labelling compliance (such as alcohol content, health warnings, and origin designation) in conformity with destination country standards.
- Export certification issued by the Wine and Spirit Board under SAWIS (South African Wine Industry Information and Systems).
- Health and safety certifications, including laboratory analysis of chemical composition (such as sulphur dioxide levels).
- In certain jurisdictions, such as China and Japan, exporters may also need to ensure importer registration with local authorities. The desk can assist with this.
- Protection of geographical indications (GIs) is also key for wines marketed under names such as “Stellenbosch” or “Paarl”.
Vehicles and automotive components
Vehicle and auto component exporters face highly regulated environments and must meet both technical and trade compliance standards, which differ across markets. Key requirements include:
- Vehicle homologation, which is compliance with technical standards on issues such as emissions, safety, and lighting specific to each market.
- Licensing and registration of products with national transport or industry regulators.
- Adherence to rules in the Harmonised Customs and Excise Tariff Book, including correct tariff classification codes, origin documentation, and duty structures.
- Proof of compliance with bilateral or multilateral trade agreements, such as Rules of Origin under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which may influence duty preferences.
- Conformity assessment and type approval certificates may also be required for critical components like airbags, braking systems, or electronics.
If you have used the Export Support Desk, Moneyweb would be keen to know about your experience. You can reach out to ciaranaryan@gmail.com.
For more information, visit the dtic here.
