Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato today announced a series of new security measures aimed at improving traveller verification and law enforcement efficiency at South Africa’s ports of entry. The announcement was made during a press conference in Pretoria, where the Commissioner also presented the BMA’s first-quarter performance report for the 2025-26 financial year.
Key Highlights from the Press Conference
1. Stricter Controls on Imports and Exports
Dr. Masiapato emphasized the need for full compliance with South African import regulations, particularly for agricultural and animal products. Importers must present permits issued by the Department of Agriculture, along with veterinary health certificates from the country of origin. Non-compliant consignments face destruction or repatriation.
Additionally, the BMA processed 1,223 consignments under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to protect South Africa’s biodiversity. Importers and exporters of endangered species must obtain permits from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) and notify the BMA at least 48 hours before shipment.
2. Enhanced Port Health Measures
The BMA’s port health specialists remain a critical line of defense against public health threats. In the first quarter:
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42 travellers were denied entry due to public health risks.
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24 suspected malaria cases were referred for further treatment.
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986 permits were processed for the movement of human remains (44 imported, 942 exported).
Strict regulations were reiterated for importing medicines, requiring approval from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA). Only seven designated ports—including OR Tambo, Cape Town, and Durban harbours—are authorised to handle such imports.
3. Immigration and Passport Compliance
A staggering 8.5 million travellers were processed this quarter. Dr. Masiapato reminded travellers that:
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Passports must have at least two unused pages (excluding the last blank page).
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Torn or unreadable passports will result in denied entry.
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Visa-exempt travellers must still present valid documentation.
New Security Measures
To combat fraud and improve efficiency, the BMA will implement:
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Advanced biometric verification systems at major ports.
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Stricter document checks for high-risk consignments.
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Increased collaboration with DFFE and health authorities to prevent illegal trade and disease spread.
Conclusion
Dr. Masiapato urged travellers and traders to prepare documentation in advance to avoid delays. “These measures are critical for national security, public health, and efficient trade facilitation,” he stated.