Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe
Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube has raised concern over the damaging effects of smuggling on Zimbabwe’s economy, noting its negative impact on local manufacturing, employment, and public health.
Speaking after a tour of Trabablas Interchange (Mbudzi) Bak Storage in Harare on Monday, where confiscated goods are stored, Prof Ncube witnessed an assortment of smuggled items, including high-end vehicles.
In an update, Treasury said in its official X account “Today, the Hon Minister of Finance toured the Zimra State Warehouse at Trabablas Interchange (Mbudzi) Bak Storage storing confiscated goods. He emphasised the need to combat smuggling, which not only deprives the government of revenue but also undermines local industries.
“ZIMRA has been making significant strides in combating smuggling. Recent operations have resulted in the seizure of substantial quantities of illicit goods. Smuggled goods pose a dual threat, pushing out local products and risking public health due to poor quality.”
The government is intensifying efforts to curb illegal cross-border trade as part of a broader strategy to stabilise the economy and promote lawful business practices.
Smuggling has long been a major challenge, crippling local industries and severely impacting revenue collection.
A key player in this crackdown is the National Anti-Smuggling Task Force, which has seized millions of dollars’ worth of contraband.
State warehouses, particularly the Container Depot (CONDEP) in Bulawayo, are now overflowing with confiscated goods, including luxury vehicles, cross-border buses, foodstuffs and second-hand clothing
According to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), more than US$2 million worth of goods have been impounded in a multi-agency operation targeting smuggling and unethical practices among importers and transporters.
The government remains committed to strengthening enforcement mechanisms and closing loopholes that enable illegal trade, ensuring that local industries and the economy at large are safeguarded.
