DTIC Proposes Bold Steps To Enhance Export Competitiveness In A Challenging Global Trade Environment

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has taken a decisive step towards revitalising exports by publishing a draft block exemption for the promotion of exports (the block exemption). The proposed block exemption is a direct response to the mounting pressures faced by South African exporters, specifically the introduction earlier this year of import tariffs by the US government. The aim of the block exemption is to enable firms to get South African products to export markets cheaper. Although the block exemption is in response to the US tariffs, it applies to all exports. At this stage, the block exemption is under ministerial consideration and the date of publication of the final block exemption is not clear. The sooner it is published, the sooner South African companies can start finding ways to collaboratively promote exports.