Zimbabwe authorities step up crackdown on smuggled goods

The Zimbabwean government has ramped up efforts to combat smuggling and the influx of counterfeit goods as part of a broader strategy to protect domestic industries and enhance their competitiveness.

Addressing delegates at a 2025 post-Budget breakfast meeting organized by Business Weekly, the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI), and the Ministry of Finance, Treasury boss Professor Mthuli Ncube emphasized that all systems have been activated to curb smuggling, which poses a significant threat to local businesses.

Border control agencies, including the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), have been directed to implement more stringent surveillance and monitoring measures. Zimra has issued warnings to travellers and cross-border traders to comply with customs laws to avoid severe penalties, including substantial fines and confiscation of goods.

"Non-declaration of imported goods creates financial losses to the fiscus and fosters an environment conducive to continued smuggling," said Prof. Ncube.

Smuggled and counterfeit goods not only undermine local industries but also jeopardize consumer safety, erode tax revenues, and contribute to job losses.

The government has stressed the critical role of import duties and levies in protecting local industries from unfair competition posed by cheaper, smuggled goods. These revenues are also essential for funding public services, infrastructure projects, and other development initiatives.

Zimra commissioner of customs and excise, Mr. Batsirai Chadzingwa, confirmed that anti-smuggling operations are already underway.

"We need a viable economy. Industries like clothing, footwear, and food production are dying because of smuggling. We are determined to address this issue," said Chadzingwa.

The fight against smuggling is a key pillar of the recently launched Zimbabwe Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan (ZIRGP) 2024-2025. This initiative aims to curb the influx of smuggled and counterfeit goods, enforce compliance with consumer protection laws, and uphold quality standards.

Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu highlighted the challenges posed by smuggling, informal trade, and high business costs, stressing the need for collaboration between the government, businesses, and consumers to address these issues.

"The influx of smuggled goods and counterfeit products continues to flood the domestic market, undermining our economy. We must address this head-on to realize the full potential of our industrial and commercial sectors," Minister Ndlovu said.
Impact on Local Businesses

Local businesses have expressed concern over the lack of adequate protection measures. Tika Shoes managing director Hashmook Naran lamented the impact of second-hand shoes and cheap imports, which often evade duties, on the survival of the footwear industry.

"Our only concern is the lack of support from the government in addressing the influx of second-hand shoes in the market," said Naran.

The government's intensified measures are expected to strengthen local industries, create jobs, and restore consumer confidence in domestic products. Authorities have called for a unified effort between policymakers, business leaders, and citizens to eliminate smuggling and promote a thriving local economy.

With stronger enforcement and a focus on industrial development, Zimbabwe is positioning itself to revive its manufacturing sectors and secure long-term economic growth.