SAAFF KwaZulu-Natal: From Friction to Flow

The KwaZulu-Natal leg of the SAAFF 2026 Annual National Roadshow brought together SAAFF members, regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders for a constructive engagement focused on improving trade facilitation and addressing everyday operational challenges.

The meeting, held on 29 October 2026 at the AHA Gateway Hotel in Umhlanga, formed part of SAAFF’s ongoing Trade Facilitation Programme, providing an opportunity for direct consultation, knowledge-sharing and collaborative problem-solving.

Devlyn Naidoo, SAAFF’s Head of Trade Facilitation, opened proceedings with a review of progress on key issues identified during the 2025 Roadshow. This provided a foundation for discussions on outstanding challenges and current priorities affecting trade and cargo movement.

The engagement brought SAAFF members together with representatives from SARS, Customs, BMA, SAHPRA, ITAC, NRCS, BACSA, SAPS and the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO).

Participants had the opportunity to raise questions, share operational experiences and discuss practical approaches to strengthening compliance, reducing regulatory and operational friction, and improving the movement of legitimate trade.

At the heart of these engagements is the importance of building trust through open dialogue, cooperation and follow-through. By bringing industry and regulatory stakeholders together, SAAFF’s Trade Facilitation Programme seeks to strengthen understanding, recognise progress and identify priorities for further action.

These discussions reinforce SAAFF’s commitment to working alongside its members and government stakeholders to help create a more efficient, predictable trading environment that supports economic growth and job creation.

SAAFF extends its appreciation to all members, representatives and participating organisations for their valuable contributions and continued commitment to turning consultation into meaningful progress.