How To Apply For A Zimbabwe Fuel Import Licence For 2026

Step-By-Step Guide To ZERA’s 2026 Fuel Import Licence Application

Navigating the application process for a Zimbabwean fuel import licence is a critical step for operators in the petroleum sector. With current licences expiring on 31 December 2025, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has outlined the procedures and requirements for securing authorisation to operate in 2026. This guide outlines the key steps, from proving your market activity to submitting the final digital application.

A crucial warning from the regulator precedes the entire process: paying the required fee does not, by itself, guarantee licence approval. Success depends on submitting a complete and compliant application.

Step 1: Fulfil The Financial And Operational Prerequisites

Before any application form is filled out, companies must ensure they meet ZERA’s core eligibility criteria. The first requirement is financial: a non-refundable licence fee of US$15,000 (approximately R285,000) must be paid. However, ZERA’s notice is explicit on this point.

The authority states:

“Payment of license fees into the ZERA account without submitting adequate application documents does not warrant the issuance of license.”

Operationally, an applicant must provide documented proof of one of the following:

Evidence of importing a minimum of 10 million litres of petrol and diesel combined in 2025, or in any year between 2022 and 2024.
OR certified proof of ownership, via title deeds, of at least three retail service stations.
OR certified management agreements for at least three retail sites held in the applicant’s name.

Step 2: Assemble Your Certified Application Dossier

Once prerequisites are confirmed, the focus shifts to documentation. All supporting papers must be certified copies. The required documents include:

A duly completed 2026 licence application form.
Proof of payment for the relevant licence fee.
The supporting evidence of market activity or asset ownership as listed above.
Any other corporate documents specified in ZERA’s official checklist.

Application forms and the complete requirement checklist are available for download on the official ZERA website at www.zera.co.zw or can be requested via email from [email protected].

Step 3: Submit Via The Mandatory Digital Channel

ZERA will not accept applications through any other method. Adherence to the digital submission protocol is mandatory for consideration.

The application rules are strict:

The complete application dossier must be sent via email only to [email protected].
Submissions to any other email address will be disregarded.
All files must be compiled in PDF format only.
The total email attachment size must be under 10MB.

Following submission, operators are reminded of the legal framework. ZERA cites Section 29 of the Petroleum Act, which mandates a valid licence for all petroleum activities. The authority warns operators:

“All operators are reminded that according to section 29 of the Petroleum Act, it is illegal to procure, sell or produce any petroleum product without a license issued by the Authority and the necessary steps will be taken on those that do not comply.”

By following these steps precisely and ensuring all evidence is verifiable and certified, companies can navigate the application process for the essential 2026 fuel import licence.