General Customs & Trade Practitioner (GCTP)
The General Customs & Trade Practitioner designation recognises professionals who offer specialised services in customs consulting, trade strategy, and dispute resolution across various regulatory and commercial domains.
These practitioners typically engage in:
- Customs classification under the Harmonised System (HS)
- Customs valuation according to the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Valuation Code
- Rules of origin and preferential trade agreements
- Customs procedures, documentation, and trade compliance management
Their role is central to supporting clients with technical interpretations, cross-border risk mitigation, dispute management, and the optimisation of international trade operations.
AWARDING CRITERIA
To be awarded the General Customs & Trade Practitioner designation, applicants must meet both academic and workplace experience requirements.
1. Academic Component
Applicants must have completed an NQF Level 7 or 8 qualification, preferably with modules in:
- Customs
- International trade
- Economics
- Logistics
- Law
- Taxation
Acceptable qualifications may include:
- Bachelor’s or Honours degrees in Accounting, Law, Economics, Logistics, or Tax
- Postgraduate Diplomas in Customs, Trade, or Taxation
Applicants with an NQF Level 6 diploma or degree that is dedicated to international trade or customs are also eligible.
In cases where an applicant holds an NQF 7 or 8 degree without customs or trade components, the application may be supported by:
- Additional certificates or diplomas in customs or trade
- Documented Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for seasoned professionals demonstrating strategic, high-level practical experience
2. Experiential Learning / Work Experience Component
Applicants must have engaged in customs or trade law work as their primary or sole professional activity for at least five (5) consecutive years within the past seven (7) years.
Relevant experience includes (but is not limited to):
- Providing technical assistance in interpreting laws, regulations, tariff codes, and rules of origin
- Reviewing or auditing compliance systems related to customs valuation, HS codes, and origin
- Developing and implementing risk assessments or gap analyses on customs/trade compliance
- Advising on cross-border sourcing strategies and trade supply chain decisions
- Designing and delivering customs compliance procedures, training, and improvement programmes
Verification is achieved by submitting a detailed resume of relevant work experience, supported by a third-party validation from a senior customs or trade expert.
3. Competency Assessment
To demonstrate competence, applicants must submit the following:
- Verified proof of work experience
- Proof of an accredited qualification, as listed above
- Proof of a clear tax record
- Proof of a clear criminal record
4. SARS Readiness Programme
In line with SARS-recognised criteria for Recognised Controlling Bodies (RCBs) and registered tax practitioners, all applicants must complete the SARS Readiness Programme before registering as a tax practitioner.
| DETAILED DESCRIPTION | FEE AMOUNT | NOTE |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fee | R800.00 | Once-off fee to process your application |
| Annual Membership Fee | R7 332.00 | Payable within 30 days of approval |
| Monthly Option | 1st, 15th, or 25th of each month | Debit order option available |