Non-tariff barriers faced by South African firms: Are there any lessons?

Abstract

Exports and export growth are cornerstones of South African economic development policy, although they are not explicitly mentioned in ASCISA. One implication of an export-orientated economy is that many of its exporters must, of necessity, conform to the technical requirements in export markets. Here, it is shown that local exporters, particularly smaller firms, often incur export delays associated with meeting foreign technical requirements. The research, therefore, supports policies aimed at increasing the use of local conformity- assessment activities and improving information availability for local firms looking to meet foreign technical requirements.