Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
LOCAL textile and clothing industry players have welcomed the promulgation of Statutory Instrument 59 of 2026 saying the move will protect domestic manufacturers and accelerate the revival of the sector.
The statutory instrument, which restricts the importation of second-hand clothing, is expected to curb unfair competition and create a conducive environment for local production.
Edgars Stores Limited chief executive Mr Sevious Mushosho said the Government’s intervention would have far-reaching economic benefits.
“The decision made by the Government to regulate the importation of used clothing will not only benefit the local clothing industry, but also the economy as a whole,” he said.
“This move will promote the growth and development of our own local textile and clothing manufacturing industry through the creation of conducive operational conditions.”
Mr Mushosho said the influx of second-hand garments has negatively affected local industry viability while also posing potential health risks.
“The SI 59 of 2026 will push local industry stakeholders to improve clothing quality. Second-hand clothes are often of lower quality and can be harmful to the health of the local population due to the unknown origin of the garments,” he said.
Zimbabwe Textiles Manufacturers Association chairman Mr Admire Masenda said the statutory instrument presents an opportunity to restore the sector’s lost capacity.
“Banning the importation of second-hand clothing presents a strategic opportunity to revive the clothing industry sector, which will in turn create jobs for locals and drive industrialisation,” he said.
Mr Masenda urged Zimbabweans to support local products, saying this would strengthen the domestic value chain.
“Zimbabweans should always remember that Western countries would never accept the importation of second-hand clothing from Africa. As Africans, we should take pride in wearing our local brands,” he said.
Industry players said they are ready to support the implementation of the statutory instrument and ensure its success.
Buy Zimbabwe also expressed confidence that SI 59 of 2026 will contribute to a sustainable and competitive clothing industry.
The organisation is set to host the ZimBrands Awards on May 22 in Harare to promote locally produced brands.
The development is expected to stimulate production, create employment and contribute to the country’s broader industrialisation agenda.
