With South Africa now in level four lockdown, the Ekurhuleni North Chamber of Commerce and Industry is starting to see a revival of activity as businesses reopen.
The chamber, which is affiliated to the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is located at the Sunrise Centre in Edenvale.
ENCCI, a self-funded organisation, relies on funds generated by issuing certificates of origin for companies exporting goods.
Deputy vice-president Bill Rundle said the certificates prove the origin of the goods, which is needed for international trade.
“With level five of the lockdown, many businesses were forced to close, which meant the chamber couldn’t issue any certificates. However, as lockdown moved to level four, exportation was allowed once again.
“The chambers were only allowed to operate after exportation was permitted which caused some complications.”
Rundle said the lockdown has affedted the chamber negatively.
Another source of income for the chamber is membership fees, hosting workshop and seminars.
“Membership fee is calculated according to the company’s turnover, as companies were forced to stop production which led to a reduction in membership fees.”
Despite the challenges imposed by the lockdown, Rundle believes the chamber will continue as normal because it is financially stable and sound.
As businesses reopen and exportation resumes, the chamber took the necessary measure to ensure its staff and members are protected from the virus as much as possible.
“There is a strict hygiene regiment in place, staff are wearing the necessary personal protective equipment and using hand sanitiser. The offices are being disinfected and the number of people allowed into the chamber at any one time will be limited.”
