MILLICENT HUNGWE
MASVINGO-Cross-border traders in Zimbabwe have raised serious concerns over increasing delays and strict enforcement measures at ports of entry, prompting the Zimbabwe Cross Border Association to seek an urgent meeting with the Minister of Finance, Mthuli Ncube.
The traders’ frustrations centre on the declaration of goods and the classification of consignments, which they say is causing unnecessary delays and causing them lose business.
The Mid-Week Watch has established that buses and trucks are now leaving their trailers at Beitbridge Border Post, with goods being held by Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) for inspection and clearance.
Zimbabwe Cross Border Association Chairman David Masomere expressed concern, saying the current system exposes traders to losses.
“All goods are now being loaded onto trailers, making it difficult for cross-border traders to safeguard their merchandise, there is a real risk of losing goods,” he said.
Masomere also highlighted repeated inspections as a major issue.
“Buses and trucks are thoroughly searched at the border, but the same process is repeated multiple times along the highway.
“This causes unnecessary delays, we are engaging authorities so that traders can operate in a conducive environment.”
He confirmed that the association has scheduled a meeting with the Minister of Finance to address the impact of the delays on traders and the broader economy, particularly concerns around reduced contribution to national GDP.
The association has also proposed that ZIMRA introduce a verification system, such as a sticker or permit, to confirm that a vehicle has already been inspected at the border.
This, they argue, would reduce repeated searches and speed up movement, especially for passengers in the same buses and trucks without commercial goods.
In response, Zimra recently issued a notice outlining its position.
The authority stated that, travellers are entitled to a US$200 duty-free rebate per person per month, with any excess goods subject to duty.
“Goods in large quantities or meant for resale are classified as commercial consignments and must be fully declared and cleared, often through licensed clearing agents.
“Smaller consignments (below US$1000) may be cleared at ZIMRA counters, though pre-clearance is encouraged to reduce delays.
“Passengers will continue to be prioritised, while commercial cargo is handled separately, proper declaration of goods is essential to avoid delays and ensure compliance with the law,” said Zimra.
ZIMRA maintains that these measures are meant to improve efficiency, promote fair trade, and ensure a smooth border experience.
However, traders on the ground say the reality is different. One Masvingo-based cross-border trader, who requested anonymity, said the delays are crippling their businesses.
“We are losing goods and money because of these delays. Business is no longer moving as expected,” the trader said.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Paul Nyati, the national spokesperson for ZRP, defended the enforcement measures, stating, “It is within ZIMRA’s mandate to regulate imported and exported goods, transporters must also prove that what they are carrying complies with the law.”
Masomere added that cross-border traders are encouraged not to import harmful drugs and substances, as this affects other cross borders by delaying movement due to incessant searches.
