Online Reporter
Peter Matika
GOVERNMENT has intensified efforts to reform Zimbabwe’s liquor licensing system, bringing together key industry stakeholders in Bulawayo today to discuss reducing licence fees, streamlining application procedures and improving compliance within the sector.
The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works through the Liquor Licensing Board, is today holding a consultative workshop, which has attracted representatives from the Ministry of Health and Child Care, police Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (Zida), Environment Management Agency local authorities, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, liquor consumers, entertainment operators and city councils.
The consultations seek to review the country’s liquor licensing legal framework and processes, with stakeholders examining proposals to revise liquor licensing levies downwards where applicable, simplify licensing procedures and enhance the ease of doing business.
The Ministry of Health and local authorities are providing input on health and sanitation requirements, while police are contributing perspectives on law enforcement and public safety.
Zimra, manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers are expected to provide recommendations on improving compliance and reducing regulatory bottlenecks affecting the industry.
The stakeholder engagements are expected to produce recommendations that will inform amendments to the existing liquor licensing framework as Government moves to balance economic growth, investment promotion and effective regulation of the liquor industry.
