In the Government Gazette of 30 September 2013, Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan signed the amended schedule of the Customs and Excise Act, bringing the new tariffs into immediate effect.
Tariffs on imports of whole birds increased to 82%, the maximum allowed, from 27%, said Davies.
The duties apply to all shipments, except those from EU nations. The charge on chicken-carcass imports was raised from 27% to 31%, while that on boneless cuts increased to 12% from 5%, said Davies.
According to the South African Poultry Association (SAPA), imports from Brazil and Europe had been hurting the local industry and could lead to as many as 20 000 job losses.
“You will pay a little more for your roast chicken, that’s our decision,” said Davies.
“Tariffs are used as a tool for industrial development. We aren’t trying to make money out of it, it’s part of developing our industry.”
Increase in tariffs for imported poultry announced. Ave increase of 8,5%. @FarmersWeeklySA
— Lindi van Rooyen (@Lindi83) September 30, 2013
#poultry #tariff announced: Carcass (excluding necks and offal) with all cuts removed, 31% general tariff, EU and SADC imports exempt
— Niel Saayman (@NielSaayman) September 30, 2013
