Customs and Excise Officer

Customs officers inspect cargo at points of exit and entry to make sure that no illegal goods leave or enter the country and to determine the amount of tax payable.  Some goods are partially or entirely duty-free in order to benefit local industries.  Customs and excise officers also need to control goods stored in warehouses.  Excise referes to tax on certain products produced in S.A. e.g. alcohol and cigarettes.  Sometimes officers are stationed at manufacturers where they need to take stock, control sales and do inspections.  Excise officers need to make sure that excise duties from firms that are licensed to produce taxable goods are levied.  Some customs and excise officers are concerned with crew members and passengers of a plane or shop leaving or entering the country.  They ensure that duties are paid and attempt to control smuggling.  They are stationed at places of departure or arrival.