Zim Now Writer
The government has lifted a policy that required fuel tankers transiting through Zimbabwe to pay duty on entry and reclaim it upon exit, a system transporters said was driving up costs and straining the industry.
The regulation, introduced last year, was intended to curb smuggling — where fuel declared as in transit was allegedly offloaded within the country — and to promote greater use of the Feruka pipeline.
However, truckers argued the measure was too costly, with fees reaching as high as US$23,000 per truck.
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On Tuesday, Cabinet confirmed the policy shift, announcing: “The relevant Statutory Instrument will be repealed accordingly.”
Officials said the removal of the duty would ease expenses for operators and enhance Zimbabwe’s competitiveness as a transit corridor for fuel.
Cabinet also revealed that a broader review of transport-related charges is underway.
This includes vehicle registration and change of ownership fees under the Central Vehicle Registry, levies by the Zimbabwe National Road Authority and the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, as well as parking and traffic management charges imposed by local authorities.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said the changes were aimed at streamlining processes, reducing the cost of doing business, and improving the country’s regional appeal as a transport hub.
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