Agents under scrutiny for corruption at Zimbabwe border posts

Intermediaries in customs clearance, commonly known as clearing agents, are reportedly colluding with corrupt Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) officials to siphon government revenue at major ports of entry.

Ordinarily, clearing agents facilitate trade by managing customs documentation, calculating and paying duties, and coordinating logistics for the smooth movement of goods. However, an investigation into operations at Forbes Border Post in Mutare reveals widespread fraudulent practices by some agents.

Instances of misconduct include under-declaring the value, quantity, or type of imported goods in the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDAWorld) to evade full duty. Some agents allegedly offer bribes or collude with ZIMRA officials to clear goods without proper inspection. Others misrepresent facts, use fake documents, or issue fraudulent invoices to reduce duty payments.

Some clearing agents have also been implicated in smuggling undeclared goods across borders, further eroding revenue collection.

In response, ZIMRA Marketing and Corporate Affairs Executive Mr Gladman Njanji acknowledged receiving complaints from businesses about a limited number of clearing agents.

"Yes, ZIMRA has received complaints and concerns from some businesses regarding the conduct of a limited number of clearing agents. The Authority treats all such complaints with the seriousness they deserve, as they directly relate to trade facilitation, revenue integrity, and public confidence in the customs clearance system," he said, while emphasising that complaints are handled confidentially and in accordance with customs regulations.

Mr Njanji stressed that the majority of licensed clearing agents operate professionally and in compliance with the law. He also defended the role of clearing agents as globally recognised intermediaries who contribute to employment, economic activity, and bridging knowledge gaps for importers and exporters.

Some business operators have called for the complete removal of clearing agents, suggesting ZIMRA handle all customs transactions to curb corruption. Mr Njanji, however, maintained that clearing agents are a critical part of the global supply chain, and their presence ensures legal representation and facilitation in complex customs procedures.

The revelations come amid growing concerns about revenue leakage and the need to strengthen integrity and oversight at Zimbabwe's border posts.