Chronicle Editor
Charity Chikara, Business Reporter
THE Ministry of Industry and Commerce has embraced the new digital business models as it now provides online options to import and export licences applicants in a bid to promote ease of doing business, decongest ministerial offices and do away with corruption.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry urged members of the public to take advantage of availed digital platforms and apply for licences in the comfort of their homes.
The Ministry noted that simplifying these processes and improving service efficiency is part of broader measures aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business in the country.
The Government has in recent years employed several strategies through ministerial departments and parastatals making concerted efforts towards improving the ease of doing business as it moves to attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) into the country.
As a result of these efforts Zimbabwe is currently ranked 140 among 190 economies in the ease of doing business in the latest World Bank annual ratings, an improvement from 155 out of 190 in 2018.
“The Ministry of Industry and Commerce would like to encourage members of the public to take advantage of the new digital technology to apply for their import and export licences via our e-portal zimservices (<http://zimservices.pfms.gov.zw>) in the comfort of their homes or offices. The ministry has zero tolerance to corruption and one way to deal with such unethical conduct is to access services online with less personal contact,” said the Ministry.
Investors are always on the look-out for countries where they would set up their business without hassles.
The ease of doing business is one of the pointers which investors are interested in when considering where to take their capital.
Ease of doing business encompasses starting a business, registering property, dealing with construction permits, getting electricity, getting credit, paying taxes, trading across borders, protecting minority investors, enforcing contracts and resolving insolvency.
The thrust by the Ministry of Industry of Commerce is in accord with the National Development Strategy 1 which also rallies behind the promotion of ease of doing business, minimising overcrowding and personal interface with prospective clientele.
In the new import and export licences digital application platforms, applicants with required documentations will have their licences issued out in three working days in line with the Client Service Charter.
“In circumstances where company visits would be necessary before processing of both import and export licences, relevant clients will be advised. Should there be any changes or challenges regarding our services clients will always be advised online or through mainstream media. The Communication Department of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce is always available to assist any client who may be facing any challenges.”
Licence fees are pegged at ZWL3 000.00 which is paid through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s account number only.
In 2020, ease of doing business index for Zimbabwe was 54.47 score, increased from 47.8 score in 2016 to 54.47 score in 2020 growing at an average annual rate of 3.36 percent.
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter