By Patience Gondo
BEITBRIDGE Clearing agents are concerned that the new certification requirement proposed by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) could affect inclusivity within the sector, as Zimbabwe advances towards its Vision 2030 development goals.
The concerns emerged after Zimra introduced a policy requiring clearing companies to employ personnel registered with the Public Accountants and Auditors Board (PAAB) under a broader professionalisation programme.
During a meeting held in Beitbridge on Thursday March 19, one clearing agent said the proposed changes may be difficult for some operators to meet within the given timeframe which is June 30 2026.
He said the time period is quite unfair because the issue was introduced mid-year when we were busy trying to raise money, and then suddenly we are told to go back to school or risk deregistration.
“We are being asked to comply within a short space of time and some may struggle to meet the new requirements,” the agent said.
“There is a need to ensure that no one is left behind as the country moves towards Vision 2030.”
Zimra said the measure is intended to strengthen compliance, accountability and standardisation within the customs clearing industry.
Speaking during the same meeting, Zimra officer Zorodzai Damiso said the PAAB Act has long been in place but had not been fully enforced.
He explained that, in the initial phase the requirement would apply to executive directors of clearing companies, with the possibility of extending it to other employees in the future.
Clearing agents at the meeting sought clarification on the scope of the directive, questioning why the requirement applies specifically to their sector and not to other businesses interacting with tax systems.
Zimra officials indicated that clearing agents fall within the definition of tax consultancy services under the PAAB framework.
Clearing agents also said the requirement to obtain additional qualifications may present challenges, particularly for smaller operators.
Zimra, however, maintains that the professionalisation programme is necessary to enhance regulatory oversight and align industry practices with established standards.
Industry bodies, including the Shipping and Forwarding Agents Association of Zimbabwe have also engaged authorities on the matter, raising legal and operational considerations around the proposed framework.
As discussions continue, both regulators and industry players are expected to work towards a position that balances regulatory objectives with the need to sustain participation in the sector.