Maseru: The Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner, Dr. Michael Masiapato, is set to join the Revenue Service Lesotho today for the launch of the Joint End-to-End Time Release Study report between South Africa and Lesotho. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

According to South African Government News Agency, the launch ceremony is supported by the World Customs Organisation Trade Facilitation Programme. It represents the first joint end-to-end Time Release Study between South Africa and Lesotho. The report underscores the commitment of both countries to the World Trade Organisation Trade Facilitation Agreement, aiming to drive data-led border management reforms within the Southern African Customs Union region.

The Time Release Study serves as a critical analytical tool, developed by the World Customs Organisation. It measures the time required to release and clear goods or cargo from their arrival at a port until they are fully processed and released. This tool highlights developments in the trade environment and identifies opportunities for Customs Administration and other government agencies to enhance cross-border procedures and processes.