adminThe Government yesterday signed an agreement with French quality inspection company Bureau Veritas for pre-shipment inspection services in a move aimed at ending the importation of substandard goods.
Zimbabwe has been flooded with imported poor quality goods mainly due to the low industrial productivity in the country.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Industry and Commerce Minister Mike Bimha said the agreement was an interim measure while establishment of the Zimbabwe Quality Standards Regulatory Authority (ZQSRA) was being finalised.
Minister Bimha said the agreement would also ensure compliance with quality, health and safety standards set by the World Trade Organisation.
“After four years Bureau Veritas is expected to hand over the verification of conformity service to the ZQSRA,” he said.
“The company (Bureau Veritas) will provide pre-shipment services of our listed products in the country of export and issue a certificate of conformity based on our national and international quality, safety, health and environmental standards.”
He said the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority would require production of the certificate for products to enter the coun- try.
Minister Bimha said some of the benefits that would accrue from the partnership included increased consumer protection, employment creation as well as training and revival of industries.
“Bureau Veritas will pay the Government of Zimbabwe monthly royalty fees equivalent to 5 percent of all monies charged and received for the services,” he said.
Speaking at the same occasion, French Ambassador to Zimbabwe Laurent Delahousse expressed confidence that the partnership would yield positive results.
Bureau Veritas is a global company with presence in about 140 countries including, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia and Tanzania. — New Ziana.
Online Reporter