Tobacco industry in conflict with SARS over new regulations

JOHANNESBURG - Food sector union, Fawu, is trying to get the tobacco industry and SARS to smoke the peace pipe.

The Fair-Trade Independent Tobacco Association is fuming over new tax regulations.

The new rules compel any warehouse to be place under constant surveillance by the revenue collector.

READ: New smoking laws to affect vaping industry

The taxman says the aim is to stub out the illicit trade and ensure manufacturers pay all taxes.

But, local makers say it's a violation of privacy, is arbitrary and irrational.

They intend heading to court to get SARS to quit the regulations.

The Food and Allied Workers Union is trying to clear the smoke and get agreement between the parties.