Times Of Swaziland: ... KELLOGG ACCREDITED ALONG UMBULUZI VALLEY SALES

... KELLOGG ACCREDITED ALONG UMBULUZI VALLEY SALES
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Nhlanganiso Mkhonta on 22/11/2024 07:32:00


EZULWINI - Kellogg Tolaram Eswatini (Pty) Ltd has been accredited under the
Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme along with Umbuluzi Valley Sales.
The two companies were accredited by the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) on
Wednesday, adding the total number of local accredited businesses to 11. The
number of AEO-accredited businesses has placed the country in second place in
the Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU) region, with the highest number of
accredited businesses. Leading in the accreditation is South Africa with over
700 AEO-accredited businesses.
ERS Head of Corporate Services Leonard Nxumalo, said the AEO programme stands as
a testament to ERS’ unwavering commitment to fostering a secure and seamless
trading environment—one that not only benefits the national economy but also
strengthens the country’s global trade relationships. Nxumalo said the two
companies have set a benchmark for others to emulate and join a community of
nine local companies already enjoying the benefits of the ‘Diplomatic
Passport’ that the AEO programme provides.
Procedures
He highlighted that the advantages of becoming an AEO member are numerous. He
said as accredited operators, businesses enjoy expedited customs procedures,
reduced inspections, and priority treatment during the clearance process. These
advantages are not merely rewards for compliance but are also tools to enhance
businesses’ competitiveness in the global marketplace.How to be AEO
accredited? An interested company submits to ERS an application form together
with a self-assessment questionnaire, which can be obtained from the ERS
website.
The form is accompanied by other supporting documentation of the company, which
includes, but is not limited to, a company organogram, company standard
operating procedures and financial statements for the past three years or less.
The applicant will be validated against a set criteria of compliance with
customs requirements: A satisfactory system for management of commercial
records; financial viability and sufficient customs knowledge. The company is
then accredited following the results of the validation carried out.  The client
is accredited through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement that outlines the
duties and obligations of both parties, i.e., ERS and the client.