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The National Assembly (NA) has, during its plenary this afternoon, adopted the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs’ report on the One Stop Border Post Bill.
 
The Bill aims to establish a legal framework for creating shared border posts between South Africa and its neighbouring countries. It provides for the development of common control zones where officials from both countries can enforce their respective national laws in a coordinated and efficient manner. These zones are intended to improve the facilitation of trade and the movement of people, while strengthening security and cooperation at ports of entry.
 
The One Stop Border Post Bill aligns with the objectives of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on the Facilitation of Movement of Persons, which promotes economic cooperation, regional integration and sustainable development within the SADC region.
 
Tabled in Parliament in September 2024, the Bill defines a one stop border post as a port of entry jointly operated by two countries at a single location, based on mutual legal and administrative agreements. It outlines procedures for enhanced cooperation, shared risk and information management, and reduced border crossing times. Each country’s laws will apply equally within the common control zones, ensuring that any violations are addressed through existing bilateral and trade agreements.
 
Importantly, the Bill empowers the Minister of Home Affairs to conclude agreements with neighbouring states on the development and management of such shared points of entry. The framework allows officials from either country to enforce border control regulations within the common control zones.
 
Once enacted, the One Stop Border Post Bill is expected to significantly enhance intra-African trade and investment by improving border efficiency, facilitating easier movement of goods and people, and strengthening economic cooperation. It supports the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area by promoting streamlined, modernized border management systems that can boost local economies and create employment opportunities across the continent.
 
Having considered the Bill, the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs recommended that the NA adopt the Bill without amendments. The Bill will now be sent to the National Council of Provinces for concurrence.

Issued by Parliament of South Africa