Source: Ministry to streamline licencing – herald
Michael Tome
Business Reporter
THE MINISTRY of Industry and Commerce says it remains committed to refining the licencing frameworks within the sector, aiming to reduce unnecessary duplication and streamline compliance processes for businesses.
The Permanent Secretary for Industry and Commerce, Dr Thomas Wushe, said this during a consultative pre-strategic meeting held last week, where he highlighted the ministry’s focus on creating a more efficient regulatory environment that will bolster industrial development and enhance trade opportunities.
He said this commitment is part of a broader Government strategy to encourage a vibrant business climate where commerce thrives.
The business community has over the past months and years raised concerns regarding the high costs and complexities associated with operating in Zimbabwe.
In response to these persistent concerns, the Government has introduced several key reforms aimed at simplifying processes and reducing barriers for entrepreneurs.
Among the recent reforms, but yet to be effected, was the rationalisation of fees associated with the dairy and agricultural sectors, addressing previous charges that were deemed excessive and detrimental to growth.
Additionally, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) fees have been adjusted to more manageable levels, alleviating the financial burden on businesses while ensuring that essential environmental regulations remain in place.
The Government has also moved to abolish outdated levies that no longer provide significant regulatory or developmental benefits, signalling a commitment to modernising the regulatory landscape.
Speaking at the consultative pre-strategic meeting, Dr Wushe said these efforts reflect the Government’s ongoing dedication to creating a conducive environment for businesses to succeed, ultimately driving economic growth and prosperity in Zimbabwe.
“You have made noise, and rightly so, measures are now underway to address the multiplicity of licensing requirements that have long frustrated businesses. The Government is working on streamlining the licensing frameworks, reducing duplication, and simplifying compliance processes.
“As the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, our mandate is to promote industrial development, facilitate trade, and create a conducive environment for commerce to flourish.
“We are entrusted with shaping policies that unlock economic potential, support enterprise growth, and position Zimbabwe competitively on the regional and global stage,” said Dr Wushe.
Dr Wushe emphasised that these measures are a clear reflection of the Government’s recognition of the persistent challenges that the business community has brought to its attention.
He said these initiatives demonstrate the Government’s unwavering commitment to improving the ease of doing business within the country and enhancing the overall competitiveness of the economy.
According to the Permanent Secretary, addressing these critical issues allows the Government to lay the groundwork for Zimbabwe to fully capitalise on opportunities presented by regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He said this proactive approach aims to streamline regulatory processes and encourage a more favourable business environment, ultimately enabling local enterprises to thrive within the broader African marketplace.
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