Issued by: Parliament of the Republic of South Africa
PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON TRADE AND INDUSTRY
Public Hearings on Tarriff Policy in the Context of Industrial Policy.
Monday 30 Sept and Tuesday 1 Oct 1996 Room 312, House of Trade and Industry, Prinsloo St. Pretoria
The globalisation of the world economy is inevitably posing new challenges to South Africa. In particular, the signing of the Marrakesh Agreement and the establishment of the World Trade Organisation introduces new requirements in the field of trade and investment.
While the full import of these developments are not yet clear, some effects are already being felt. There have been significant reductions in tarriffs and several industries have given evidence to the Committee on the job reductions which have ensued.
On the other hand it is well known that many industries were cushioned in the past by a range of protectionist measures and it is now generally agreed that our industries must become more competitive in foreign markets and against imported goods.
These hearings are intended to facilitate the presentation of various views on the best course to be pursued and to enable industry to inform the Committee about their measures to adjust to our new situation.
Prof Ben Turok M P Chair, Trade and Industrial Policy Group Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry
26 September 1996