ZIMRA to Charge Duty and Levies on Fuel in Transit
The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has introduced new regulations concerning the payment of duty on fuel in transit.
This move, which follows the 2024 Mid-term budget announcement by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, took effect on August 10, 2024.
ZIMRA has made it mandatory for all fuel types, including petrol, diesel, paraffin, and jet A1, imported by road through Zimbabwe’s ports of entry, to be subject to duty and levies upon entry into the country. This regulation aims to enhance compliance and transparency in the transit of fuel through Zimbabwe.
ZIMRA to Charge Duty and Levies on Fuel in Transit
A vital aspect of the regulation is that duty and levies must be paid immediately at the port of entry. However, these payments can be refunded at the port of exit if all transit procedures are properly followed. This includes submitting proof that the fuel has been exported.
ZIMRA outlined that consignees and their representatives must approach the authority at the port of entry to initiate the fuel clearance and payment process.
Vehicles to Get Plates Before Leaving Ports of Entry
For refunds, the parties involved must visit ZIMRA at the port of exit after the fuel has been successfully exported.
However, analysts say the move is likely to cause cross-border transporters within the SADC region who use Zimbabwean roads as transit routes to start looking for alternative routes. The move could have negative medium-term effects on ZIMRA's revenue streams.
