At a recent strategic session between SARS and a packed auditorium of supply chain stakeholders, it was jointly agreed to postpone the implementation of Release 2 until June 2011. For SARS there remains a significant change integration exercise – that in upskilling staff members in the use and discipline of its new user interface – Service Manager (SM).

A previous post Modernisation Release 2 – Industry testing to commence highlighted the scope for what is a significant enhancement for internal SARS’ staff. While development and testing has progressed reasonably well, stakeholders agreed that stability of certain software components was needed in order to provide all parties the necessary comfort before rolling out live to the trade.

A review of progress revealed that the E@sy software products, together with the new clearance data fields and CPC codes will best be packaged for a June 2011 implementation. The other component for Release 2 – the new Cargo Management system – is scheduled for rollout  in May 2011.

The implications for trade are: a slight reprieve in the commencement of customs clearance and electronic submission of supporting documents. For cargo manifest reporters, however, introduction of SARS’ new cargo management system will go ahead as planned, replacing the current system. Significant improvements in the maritime industry’s cargo data compliance are encouraging, while air cargo is receiving more focussed attention to ensure improved compliance in this modality.

A detailed specification for declaration processing changes will be released to stakeholders within a fortnight addressing new functionality and improved guidelines in the completion of declaration amendments in particular. Watch this space.