The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has begun implementing ISO 9001:2015 certification as part of broader efforts to align Zimbabwe’s trade systems with international standards, arguing that quality compliance is critical.
The ministry said trade and standards “move hand in glove,” stressing that sustainable production and adherence to global benchmarks are essential if Zimbabwe is to compete in international markets.
The initiative forms part of a Quality Management System reform programme, with officials completing the second and final leg of an internal awareness refresher workshop held at Monomutapa Hotel.
The programme will be extended to provincial staff in the coming months.
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ISO 9001:2015 certification focuses on improving institutional processes, accountability, documentation systems and service delivery efficiency, areas often cited as bottlenecks in Zimbabwe’s regulatory environment.
While the ministry’s move signals intent to modernise its internal systems, the question remains whether certification at institutional level will translate into tangible trade facilitation improvements for exporters facing border delays, high compliance costs and limited access to global markets.
Government has repeatedly identified standards compliance as a prerequisite for export diversification and industrial upgrading.
However, without parallel reforms, critics argue customs efficiency, logistics infrastructure and production financing, certification alone may have limited impact on trade volumes.
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