The Zimbabwe government has released a list of goods that businesses must be able to demonstrate were legally imported with duty paid.
If they fail to provide such proof during inspections by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), the items could be classified as smuggled and face duty payments, fines, and other penalties.
This announcement follows Zimra’s successful operation which led to the seizure of goods valued at approximately US$2.4 million.
This multi-agency initiative targeted importers and cross-border transporters engaged in smuggling activities and unethical business practices.
In the course of their operations, Zimra has impounded a significant number of vehicles, including cross-border buses and haulage trucks, along with confiscating various illicit goods such as foodstuffs and second-hand clothing.
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According to ZIMRA Commissioner-General Regina Chinamasa, the authority’s inspections focus on both commercial and passenger vehicles along cross-border trade routes, particularly targeting non-compliant transporters and importers.
In a statement to The Sunday Mail, she noted, “We have seized items with a total duty value of ZiG46 242 385 (approximately US$1.8 million at the official exchange rate) and US$572,199. Our ultimate goals are to curb smuggling, promote voluntary compliance and encourage ethical business practices. As compliance improves, controls will be part of ongoing risk management efforts.”
Chinamasa also revealed that the agency’s warehouses are currently filled to capacity with the goods that have been recovered through these operations.
The officially published list details the specific items that could result in trouble for businesses unable to present proof of duty payment, reinforcing the seriousness of compliance in the importation process.
