Zimra Sets Import Duty On All Goods Including Groceries Sent By Individuals From South Africa

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has set an import duty on all goods including groceries sent by individuals from South Africa.

Zimra directed its officials at the Beitbridge Border Post to demand import duty on all goods sent to Zimbabwe by individuals based in South Africa.

In a notice titled “Clearance of Goods/Groceries Sent by Individuals from South Africa”, ZIMRA said a traveler's rebate is not applicable to all goods which are not accompanied by the owners, therefore, they have to pay duty in full. The statement reads:

Please note that the following shall apply:

1) Every transporter shall transmit by email to ZIMRA, a Cargo Manifest not later than three (3) hours before the arrival of the vehicle at the port of entry;

2) The Cargo Manifest must include details of the transporter, individuals receiving the goods, description, and quantities of the goods and must be signed by the driver in charge of the vehicle.

It is advisable that every transporter should appoint a Clearing Agent who will be responsible for receiving duty assessments and for the payment of the duties prior to the arrival of the goods.

Pre-clearance is mandatory in terms of the law and avoids delays associated with the clearance process when goods are already at the border.

Note: No Travelers Rebate Allowance is applicable as these goods are unaccompanied by the importers & therefore full duties are due and payable.