By Panashe Karidzagundi
THE Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has called on importers and exporters to fully comply with customs regulations.
Authorities said honest declarations and payment of duties are critical for national development and the realisation of Vision 2030.
Speaking during a Three-in-One Function comprising an Anti-Smuggling Campaign, Anti-Drugs Awareness Campaign, and National Clean-Up Campaign held at Pagomba Café in Beitbridge, ZIMRA Shift Manager, Komboni Elliot, said traders must uphold integrity in their business dealings.
“We are here for the issue of compliance,” said Komboni. “Every importer and exporter must pay their duties. Vision 2030 does not come only with words but with actions.”
He warned against under-declaring goods to evade customs duties, saying such practices deprive the country of much-needed revenue.
“When you buy something worth R500, declare that you bought something for R500, not R100. You will not be stealing from me or ZIMRA, but from the country and the President,” said Komboni.
Komboni talked about the importance of proper customs declarations, payment of duties, and the production of accurate invoices, describing them as key pillars of accountability and fair trade.
He also linked customs compliance to the 2026 World Customs Organization (WCO) theme of civil protection, noting that customs authorities play a vital role in safeguarding communities from harmful and illegal products.
“It is us who bring goods into our communities. We must be careful that drugs do not find their way into society because the 2030 we dream of may not be realised if we fail to act responsibly,” he said.
Quoting President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s popular mantra, Komboni added: “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” (A country is built by its own people).
Komboni said, compliance with customs regulations is more than a legal obligation, describing it as an investment in national security, public health, and economic growth.
According to Komboni, revenue collected through customs duties enables government to fund critical development programmes, including support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are key drivers of employment and economic activity.
He further warned against the importation of illicit drugs, unsafe skin-lightening products, and unregulated sex enhancers, saying customs controls help protect citizens from harmful substances and products.
The event brought together customs officials, traders, community members, and other stakeholders in a joint effort to promote lawful trade, combat smuggling and drug abuse, and encourage environmental cleanliness in Beitbridge.
Komboni concluded by urging all stakeholders to embrace compliance, integrity, and responsible trade practices for the benefit of the nation.
“By paying duties, declaring goods properly, and producing accurate invoices, we protect our communities, strengthen our economy, and contribute to Zimbabwe’s development,” he said.