Sidumisile Mabena
Nqobile Bhebhe in Plumtree
The critical role of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) comes under the spotlight today as the country joins the rest of the world in commemorating International Customs Day (ICD), with this year’s main celebrations being held at Plumtree Border Post.
The border post, one of the country’s key gateways for regional trade and co-operation, provides a fitting backdrop to showcase the central role customs administration plays in facilitating legitimate trade, safeguarding national interests and supporting economic growth.
Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion David Mnangagwa is expected to headline the commemorations.
The Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, several Government officials, customs officers and other stakeholders in the trade and logistics sector are also present.
This year’s theme is “Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment”.
International Customs Day, observed annually on January 26, recognises the vital role played by customs officials and agencies in border security, trade facilitation and revenue collection.
It also shines a spotlight on the working conditions and challenges faced by customs officers, who operate at the frontline of a country’s economic and security systems.
For Zimbabwe, the day underscores the strategic importance of Zimra’s Customs and Excise Division in driving the national development agenda.
Customs administration is a cornerstone of economic stability, ensuring that lawful cross-border trade flows smoothly while curbing illicit activities that undermine industry and public safety.
Customs officers are tasked with protecting communities by intercepting dangerous and prohibited goods, including drugs, counterfeit products and hazardous materials.
At the same time, they play a crucial role in preventing smuggling and other forms of illicit trade that erode the tax base, distort markets and threaten local industries.
Beyond enforcement, Zimra’s customs operations are central to trade facilitation.
By implementing modern clearance systems, risk management frameworks and international best practices, the authority helps to speed up the movement of goods across borders, reducing delays and costs for business.
This balance between control and facilitation is key to enhancing Zimbabwe’s competitiveness in regional and global markets, officials say.
International Customs Day traces its origins to January 26, 1953, when the first session of the Customs Co-operation Council (CCC) was held in Brussels.
The organisation later evolved into the World Customs Organization (WCO), which now serves as a global hub for customs co-operation, experience sharing and the development of common standards.
These international standards are crucial in ensuring that countries operate compatible and predictable customs systems.
Without them, global trade would be hampered by chaotic and conflicting requirements, significantly increasing costs and hindering the movement of goods.
More to follow
Online Reporter