National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications improves turnaround times
The NRCS issues letters of authority for importers before goods can be released; however, a backlog means an IT modernisation process is being fast-tracked
The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) has improved its turnaround times for processing letters of authority, but still has a significant backlog to deal with, CEO Edward Mamadise said on Wednesday. Letters of authority are required by importers before their goods can be released by customs. NRCS approval ensures products and imported goods meet the required specifications. The backlog and delay in issuing these letters of authority have been a cause of major frustration by commerce and industry, particularly as they have to bear the cost of storage until the imported goods are removed from customs warehouses. Madamise noted in a presentation to Parliament’s trade and industry portfolio committee that in 2016-17 only 37% of applications were processed within 120 days, which is the set turnaround time. In 2017-18, this had doubled with the NRCS processing 74% of applications within 120 days. "By June 5, there were no applications [of longer than] 120 days," Madam...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.