Online Reporter
Judith Phiri Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) has commended the Government for the recently announced comprehensive reforms to ease and reduce the cost of doing business in the country.
In a statement, CZR president, Dr Denford Mutashu extended their deepest appreciation to President Mnangagwa and the Government for remaining true to the promise of the Second Republic, that of building a listening, responsive and reform-driven administration.
The recently announced comprehensive reforms are clear evidence that Government is walking the talk on the ease and cost of doing business agenda. These bold and far-reaching reforms will have a transformative impact across the economy,” he said.
“They address longstanding challenges that have constrained enterprise development, including excessive compliance costs, duplication of permits and disproportionate regulatory burdens.”
He said by streamlining regulations, reducing fees and scrapping unnecessary levies, Government has sent a strong signal to domestic and international investors that Zimbabwe is truly open for business.
Dr Mutashu said in the agriculture sector, reductions in export registration, health and safety compliance costs, environmental fees and other levies will provide significant relief to farmers, processors and smallholder enterprises that form the backbone of rural livelihoods and national food security.
“Similarly, in the transport and urban sectors, the reduction of parking fees will not only ease the burden on businesses and motorists but also enhance urban economic activity and mobility,” he added.
“CZR recognises these reforms as a critical step towards enhancing competitiveness, boosting productivity, creating jobs and stimulating formalisation across multiple sectors. Importantly, they reinforce agriculture as the mainstay of the economy while supporting retail, tourism, transport and other downstream industries.”
He said as the retail and wholesale sector, they stand ready to work hand in hand with Government in ensuring that these measures are fully implemented and that their intended benefits are realised by all stakeholders.
Dr Mutashu said they were encouraged by Government’s commitment to subject all future regulations to a Regulatory Impact Assessment process, which guarantees predictability, transparency and business confidence going forward.
‘Looking ahead, CZR anticipates more reforms across all sectors of the economy as part of the Government’s holistic approach to making Zimbabwe one of the most attractive investment destinations in Africa” he said.
“At the same time, we expect businesses to reciprocate these bold efforts by eliminating profiteering and speculative price behaviour, thereby ensuring that the benefits of these reforms are felt by consumers and the wider economy.”
He said CZR salutes President Mnangagwa and the Second Republic for consistently prioritising business reforms that reduce costs, remove bottlenecks and promote inclusive economic growth.
Dr Mutashu said this was leadership that inspires confidence, strengthens partnerships and accelerates Zimbabwe’s journey towards achieving Vision 2030 of becoming an upper-middle-income society.
Sidumisile Mabena