Lesotho Finance Minister Urges Motorists To Comply With New SARS Vehicle Import Requirements

The Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Dr. Retsélisitsoe Matlanyane, has called on Basotho motorists travelling to South Africa to comply with new requirements introduced by the South African Revenue Service. The new rules focus on the registration of foreign vehicles entering South Africa and form part of broader customs control reforms. The minister’s appeal comes as both countries prepare for tighter border management systems affecting travel and trade within the region. The changes are expected to affect thousands of motorists who regularly cross between Lesotho and South Africa for business, work and personal travel. Authorities say the aim is to improve regulation while reducing illegal movement of goods and vehicles.

Dr. Matlanyane addressed the Senate to explain that the South African Revenue Service has introduced a temporary system requiring all goods entering South Africa to be declared, including foreign registered motor vehicles. This includes vehicles from neighbouring countries within the Southern African Customs Union such as Lesotho, Botswana, Namibia and Eswatini. The system, known as the Temporary Import Declaration of Motor Vehicles, is expected to take effect from 1 June 2026. Under this system, motorists will be required to formally register their vehicles when entering South Africa. The process is designed to ensure that all cross border vehicle movement is properly recorded and monitored.

The minister urged Basotho motorists to prepare early for the new requirements by visiting SARS offices located at border posts. These offices will assist travellers with the registration process and provide guidance on how to obtain the necessary import permits. Once registered, motorists will be issued with import permits that must be carried at all times while travelling within South Africa. Failure to present these documents may lead to delays at border gates or possible penalties. Dr. Matlanyane stressed that compliance will help reduce unnecessary disruptions during travel and ensure smoother movement between the two countries.

The introduction of this system is part of wider efforts to strengthen customs enforcement and improve border regulation across the region. South African authorities aim to improve tracking of vehicles entering and exiting the country to prevent misuse and ensure proper tax and customs compliance. For Lesotho, which shares a highly active border with South Africa, the changes are particularly significant due to the high volume of daily commuters. Many Basotho rely on cross border travel for employment, education and trade, making efficient border processes essential. The minister highlighted that cooperation between countries is key to ensuring the system works effectively without causing unnecessary hardship for travellers.

Dr. Matlanyane further emphasised that awareness and preparation will be critical in helping citizens adjust to the new regulations. She encouraged motorists to seek information early and avoid waiting until the enforcement date approaches. Government officials are expected to continue public education campaigns to ensure that citizens understand the requirements and procedures involved. The goal is to minimise confusion at border posts once the system becomes active. She also reassured travellers that the government is engaging with South African authorities to ensure a smooth transition.

The upcoming implementation of the Temporary Import Declaration system marks an important shift in regional customs management. While it introduces new administrative steps for motorists, it also aims to improve border security and streamline monitoring processes. For Basotho travellers, compliance will be essential to avoid delays and penalties when entering South Africa. The success of the system will depend on cooperation between governments and the willingness of motorists to follow the new rules. As the implementation date approaches, authorities on both sides are expected to intensify coordination to ensure a structured and predictable rollout.