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Zimbabwe’s customs and clearing agents last week adopted a new code of conduct and ethics that seeks to professionalise the sector and improve the way of doing businesses to facilitate regional and international trade.
Prior to the development, the freight forwarding sector had been tainted by allegations on untoward behaviour such as the duping clients or facilitating smuggling of goods into the country, that was being perpetrated by rogue elements.
The Shipping and Forwarding Agents Association of Zimbabwe (SFAAZ) chief executive Mr Joseph Musariri said the new code was adopted in Harare last Thursday after consultations with various players in the sector.
“Some of the main objectives of the document include the desire to establish professionalism that will protect the image, credibility and sustainability of the customs clearing industry in Zimbabwe,” said Mr Musariri.
“In addition, this new code will help level the playing field in terms of the behaviour of stakeholders and to enhance the industry’s contribution to the development of trade and commerce.”
Mr Musariri said their idea was to cultivate solidarity and unity, among customs clearing associations and companies.“This code will see us adopting and promulgating it for all players in the customs clearing industry so that we may be able to self-regulate,” he said.
Mr Musariri said the document will regulate all organisations and individuals who work within the customs clearing sector.
“We also agreed that all clearing agents shall faithfully comply with all Government laws, rules and regulations and not commit acts that may obstruct or destruct the objective and any functions of any Government agents,” he said.
“In addition, the code makes provisions for all clearing faithfully commit to the collection of correct revenue on behalf of the Government, and remittance of same to the relevant authorities.”
Online Reporter