Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Revenue Authority has partnered with Buy Zimbabwe in a renewed push to curb smuggling and protect local industries from unfair competition.
In a letter last week, Zimra confirmed its commitment to working closely with the buy-local advocacy organisation to craft effective strategies to stem the influx of smuggled goods into the country.
Buy Zimbabwe advocacy officer, Mr Elvis Masvaure, said the collaboration was critical in safeguarding both consumers and manufacturers.
“The goal is not only to stop smuggling of goods but also to ensure that the local market is free from counterfeit products,” he said.
“Collaboration with Zimra is essential to protect local manufacturers from unethical trading practices.”
Zimra’s Commissioner of Customs and Excises, Mr Batsirai Chadzingwa, outlined the extent of the problem, identifying fuel, alcohol, energy drinks, footwear, detergents, meat, confectionery, washing powder, clothing and other groceries as some of the most frequently smuggled goods.
“Fuel, alcohol, energy drinks, footwear, detergents, meat, confectionery, washing powder, clothing and other groceries in general are the mostly smuggled goods in Zimbabwe,” he said.
The joint initiative seeks to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, promote ethical trading practices and create a fairer marketplace for compliant businesses while protecting consumers from counterfeit and potentially harmful products.
