Online Reporter
Prosper Dembedza
Herald Correspondent
BLANKET and textile manufacturers are expressing relief after the Government took decisive action against smuggling and illegal activities that are threatening the survival of local industries.
The local blanket manufacturing sector has welcomed the Government’s recent efforts to curb smuggling, which has resulted in the market being flooded with cheaper substandard products.
“We are glad the Government recognises the harmful effect that smuggling has had on our industry,” said Zimbabwe Textiles Manufacturers Association secretary general Mr Raymond Huni.
“We hope these measures will create a fairer playing field for local producers.”
However, industry insiders warned that smugglers are reviewing their tactics to evade enforcement.
“Foreign smugglers are reportedly establishing front companies with minimal machinery and a handful of employees, primarily as a facade to facilitate the import of nearly finished blankets,” Mr Huni said.
“These goods are then smuggled across borders through corrupt practices, bypassing customs duties and regulations.
He said it is worrying borders are allowing substandard and cheap blankets to enter Zimbabwe saying this affects locally manufactured blankets and fabrics.
Mr Huni said the Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s anti-smuggling team must work closely with textile industries in order to curb this problem.
He said what is also worrying is that the smuggled goods are being sold exclusively for cash in United States dollars.
Mr Huni urged authorities to continue intensifying their crackdown on smuggling and applying for stricter border controls and enhanced surveillance to protect the local textile sector.
Online Reporter