Zimbabwe Introduces Flexible Customs Measures to Ease Return of Citizens From South Africa
The Government has approved a flexible customs administration mechanism designed to make it easier for Zimbabweans returning from South Africa to bring their personal belongings and selected assets back home.
The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion said the temporary arrangement is intended to facilitate the smooth repatriation of returning citizens while complementing existing customs laws governing returning residents.
According to the ministry, the initiative is an additional measure that operates alongside the provisions of Section 105 of the Customs and Excise (General) Regulations and Statutory Instrument 10 of 2022.
Also Read: George Charamba Tells Returning Zimbabweans: ‘South Africa Is No Longer an Option’
Personal belongings to enter duty-free
Under the new framework, returning Zimbabweans will be allowed to import their personal effects without paying customs duty.
The exemption covers commonly used household items such as clothing, furniture, kitchen utensils and other personal belongings that have been in use before their return.
Authorities said the measure is aimed at easing the financial burden on citizens who are resettling in Zimbabwe after living in South Africa.
Rebate offered for business equipment and used capital goods
The Government has also introduced a rebate facility for pre-owned business or capital goods that belong to returning residents.
Eligible items include computers, office furniture, machinery, tools and other equipment that had previously been used in businesses owned by the returnee.
Applicants will be required to provide proof that they owned both the business and the goods they intend to import under the rebate arrangement.
Vehicle imports allowed under duty suspension
As part of the package, each returning resident will be permitted to import one motor vehicle under a duty suspension arrangement, subject to the conditions outlined in Statutory Instrument 10 of 2022.
However, the Ministry clarified that Value Added Tax (VAT) will still be payable on imported vehicles.
Authorities tighten verification to prevent abuse
While introducing the concessions, the Government stressed that strict compliance measures will remain in place to ensure the facility benefits only genuine returning residents.
Customs officials will conduct interviews and examine supporting documents to verify applicants’ eligibility.
In addition, passports and travel records will be scrutinised to assess travel history and distinguish bona fide returnees from frequent cross-border traders seeking to exploit the arrangement.
The latest measures form part of the Government’s broader efforts to support Zimbabweans returning from South Africa by easing their reintegration and reducing the cost of relocating back home.
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