Mthuli Ncube Suspends Duty On Wine Imported Into Zimbabwe — Here’s What It Means

Mthuli Ncube Suspends Wine Duty For Two Years In Shock Move

The Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, has suspended excise duty on imported raw wine for a period of two years. The exemption applies only to “approved wine manufacturers” and came into effect on the date of publication of the new regulations.

According to Statutory Instrument 68 of 2025, the suspension applies to raw wine under commodity code 2204.29.99 with an annual maximum limit of 100,000 litres per approved manufacturer.

“With effect from the date of publication and for a period of two years, excise duty is suspended on raw wine imported by approved wine manufacturers in terms of this section,”
reads the official notice published in the Zimbabwean Government Gazette dated 27 June 2025.

The announcement was confirmed by government spokesperson Nick Mangwana, who posted on X at 6:47 AM on 28 June 2025:

“With effect from date of publication and for a period of two years, excise duty is suspended on raw wine imported by approved wine manufacturers in terms of this section.”

The regulation specifically defines raw wine as wine imported entirely for the process of manufacturing wine. Only importers approved by the Commissioner of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) will qualify, and compliance with the Revenue Authority Act [Chapter 23:11] is a requirement.

Public reaction online

The public response on social media was immediate—and divided.

One user, posting as @Chairman H. W Chitepo, wrote:

“Only elites drink wine. People in Dotito or Chimanimani don’t give a rat’s ass about excise duty on wine. I’m surprised that you are posting it as news!”

Another, @BlackSoul, expressed scepticism about who would benefit:

“An approved manufacturer means an importer approved by the commissioner. I see ZviGananda without any manufacturing plant getting licenses to import intoxications beyond wine. A failed state enabling OPIUM movers!”

Focus on the beneficiaries

Under the new rules, each approved manufacturer can import up to 100,000 litres of wine with an alcohol strength not exceeding 14% annually. This could represent a significant cost saving for wine businesses operating in Zimbabwe.

At the current average excise duty rates, this could save manufacturers tens of thousands of Zimbabwean dollars—or around R83,000 per annum (ZAR equivalent).

However, some critics questioned the government’s priorities during an economic downturn. One user, @ARNOLD, asked:

“What is the main reason for suspension of excise duty on wine? What is the government trying to promote?”

Who qualifies?

For importers to benefit, they must:

  • Be approved by the ZIMRA Commissioner;

  • Submit a signed declaration confirming the wine is for processing;

  • Stay within the specified volume limits;

  • Remain compliant with the Revenue Authority Act.

The regulations will remain in force for two years, unless revoked or amended.

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The post Mthuli Ncube Suspends Duty On Wine Imported Into Zimbabwe — Here’s What It Means appeared first on iHarare News.

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