Lesotho and South Africa yesterday launched the End-to-End Time Release Study (TRS) Report 2025 in Maseru, marking a significant milestone in efforts to improve trade efficiency between the neighboring nations.
The launch event brought together government officials, customs authorities, and trade partners from both countries to unveil findings that will guide future border modernisation initiatives.
The TRS employs a World Customs Organisation (WCO) methodology to measure the time required for goods clearance at border crossings.
The comprehensive study forms part of the WCO’s Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, with funding support from UK International Development (UKID) and the World Bank Group through the CAFI Project.
‘Malineo Seboholi, Chairperson of the National Trade Facilitation Committee, welcomed the South African delegation and emphasised the study’s importance.
“Today’s event marks a milestone in our continuing efforts to enhance trade facilitation and promote better border management,” she stated.
Seboholi highlighted that the project completion demonstrates the strong partnership between the two nations, reflecting their shared commitment to evidence-based trade policies and border reforms.
“For Lesotho, as a landlocked country, trade facilitation is not a choice but a necessity. Efficient and predictable border processes are fundamental to reducing the cost of doing business, enhancing export competitiveness, and ensuring that small and medium-sized enterprises participate effectively in regional and global trade,” she said.
Rakokoana Makoa, Acting Commissioner General of Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL), connected the initiative to the organisation’s strategic vision.
“This moment is particularly significant for the RSL as it aligns with our 2024–2027 strategy, Lesokoana, loosely translated as A Relay. Central to this strategy is our focused pursuit of operational efficiency, ensuring that our systems, processes, and services are modern, agile, and responsive to the needs of traders and travelers,” he said.
He noted the initiative reinforces commitment to the WCO Trade Facilitation Agreement and supports coordinated border management efforts among SACU member states.
Martine Sobey, UK High Commissioner, described the UK’s support as a strategic investment in Southern Africa’s trade future. “The TRS is about unlocking opportunities,” she said.
CAFI’s Managing Director, Chaba Mokuku, emphasised that the study’s recommendations will be actively implemented rather than shelved, supporting tangible economic growth.
The event concluded with the formal signing and handover of the TRS Report 2025 among RSL, SARS, and the Border Management Authority (BMA).
The report’s findings will now guide customs clearance improvements, border modernization projects, and enhanced regional trade integration, ultimately strengthening economic ties between Lesotho and South Africa.
Summary
- Lesotho and South Africa yesterday launched the End-to-End Time Release Study (TRS) Report 2025 in Maseru, marking a significant milestone in efforts to improve trade efficiency between the neighboring nations.
- The comprehensive study forms part of the WCO’s Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, with funding support from UK International Development (UKID) and the World Bank Group through the CAFI Project.
- Central to this strategy is our focused pursuit of operational efficiency, ensuring that our systems, processes, and services are modern, agile, and responsive to the needs of traders and travelers,” he said.
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