The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) foresees a significant boost in revenue following the upgrade of Forbes Border Post to operate 24 hours a day. The smooth implementation of the extended operating hours has already yielded promising results, with 51 commercial trucks and 105 individuals served on the first night alone, The Herald reported.
ZIMRA’s corporate affairs executive, Mr. Gladman Njanji, expressed optimism about the positive financial impact of the border post’s upgrade. He explained that the increased operating time would lead to a higher volume of trade each day, resulting in a rise in revenue. The expanded working hours provide more opportunities for effective staff engagement, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency. Njanji said:
The roll out started smoothly with 51 commercial trucks being served during the night for both outgoing and incoming cargo. No challenges were encountered as preparations by all border agencies had been done in good time.
The increased operating time will result in increased volume of trade every day. An expanded working day implies more time for effective staff engagement and that results in operational efficiency.
Revenue will increase due to an increase in cross-border passage of goods.
Mr. Njanji further elaborated on the anticipated numbers, stating that on a busy day, they expect to clear approximately 700 incoming trucks and 800 outgoing trucks, spread across the 24-hour period of cross-border movement. Such a significant increase in trade activity is expected to translate into a substantial revenue boost for both Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
The upgraded Forbes Border Post holds great significance due to its proximity to the busy seaport of Beira. Serving nearly half of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, it has become one of the busiest ports of entry in the country. The extended operating hours are expected to facilitate smoother trade flows and also relieve congestion at the border, particularly along Park Road and the Mutare-Chimanimani Road, where long queues of commercial trucks have become a common sight.
Various stakeholders, including shipping and forwarding agents, have expressed their support for the upgraded border post. Mrs. Priscilla Murewanhema, the chairperson of the Shipping and Forwarding Agents Association of Zimbabwe’s branch, welcomed the development, emphasizing that it would reduce congestion and ensure faster movement of goods. She also called for improvements in the lighting system at the Mutare Dry Port to aid in physical inspections of goods before clearance.
Truck drivers have also praised the extended operating hours, saying will significantly reduce delays in transporting cargo to and from Beira. Mr. Jordan Shava, a truck driver, highlighted the positive impact on their well-being, allowing more time for rest and family engagement while reducing fatigue.
SOURCE : PINDULA
