| Part 1

Harare, Zimbabwe – October 18, 2024

By Business Reporter | As Zimbabwe lifts the restriction on the importation of vehicles over 10 years old, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has outlined several key regulations for returning residents. This is part of broader changes reflected in Statutory Instrument 172 of 2024, which also includes guidelines for special categories of vehicles like antiques and classics.

However, returning residents must still comply with specific rules and procedures, as highlighted by experts in the shipping industry. Here are the critical do’s and don’ts to help returning residents navigate the process successfully:

Do’s

1.  Ensure Your Returning Resident Status Is Approved

Living outside Zimbabwe for more than two years doesn’t automatically qualify you as a returning resident. You need to apply and be accepted to benefit from duty exemptions. If your application is denied, you’ll need to pay full import duties on vehicles and goods.
2. Comply with the Six-Month Vehicle Ownership Rule
To import a personal vehicle duty-free, you must have owned it for at least six months before clearing it in Zimbabwe. This is a strict requirement, especially for those importing vehicles over 10 years old.
3. Prepare Your Documents in Advance
Ensure that all necessary paperwork, including proof of vehicle ownership, shipping documentation, and required licenses for restricted items, is in order. Delays in preparing your documents can lead to fines or seizures of goods.
4. Research Import Licenses and Permits
Some items, such as firearms and pets, require special permits or police clearance to enter Zimbabwe. Ensure you have researched these requirements thoroughly before shipping.
5. Be Financially Prepared
Shipping goods back to Zimbabwe is not cheap. Factor in the full cost of shipping, potential taxes, and any unforeseen expenses to avoid being caught off guard by the financial implications of the move.
6. Use a Reputable Freight Forwarder
Engage an honest and reliable freight forwarding company to handle your shipments. They will guide you through the process and ensure your goods are delivered safely and on time.
7. Declare All Items Accurately
Failing to declare goods correctly can lead to fines or seizure of your items. Make sure everything being shipped is fully declared.
8. Be Flexible with Your Plans
Customs interviews and inspections can take longer than expected. Build flexibility into your timelines and be prepared for potential delays.

Don’ts

1.  Don’t Assume Automatic Duty Exemptions

Simply because you have lived abroad for over two years does not mean you’ll automatically be exempt from paying duties. You must be granted returning resident status before you can take advantage of reduced taxes or exemptions.
2. Don’t Ignore the Special Requirements for Restricted Items
If you plan to import items like firearms or pets, don’t overlook the paperwork and clearances required. Failing to prepare these in advance could cause major delays or complications at the border.
3. Don’t Ship Without Understanding the Regulations on Personal Vehicles
Vehicles older than 10 years are now allowed for import, but returning residents must still meet the six-month ownership rule. Make sure you understand these regulations fully before arranging for shipping.
4. Don’t Rely on Verbal Promises from Shipping Agents
Always get agreements with freight forwarders or agents in writing. Verbal promises can lead to misunderstandings or disputes, especially when it comes to timelines or costs.
5. Don’t Expect Quick Customs Clearances
Customs processes can be slow, especially for those importing large amounts of household goods or vehicles. Prepare for inspections and interviews that may take longer than anticipated.

Industry Insight

Sharon William, of Shazz & Co Freight Forwarding Limited, shared her sentiments and essential advice for those relocating:

“When relocating to Zimbabwe, it’s crucial to understand that being granted returning resident status is not automatic. You must meet the eligibility criteria or risk having your application rejected, which could result in paying full import duties or the seizure of your goods.

Our best advice is to be financially prepared, ensure all paperwork is in order, and more importantly use a reputable freight forwarder to handle the process efficiently.”

Relocating can be a physically, mentally, emotionally and financially taxing exercise. Therefore, entrusting your valuable goods (some of sentimental value) with a reputable freight forwarder gives you the much-needed peace of mind at a time when your life is about to change.

‘I believe that the 6-8 weeks during which the goods are in transit should be spent tying up loose ends and preparing to receive the goods instead of constantly worrying if you will ever be reunited with your goods.’

The recent changes to vehicle import regulations in Zimbabwe present new opportunities for returning residents. Some had to delay their relocation plans as they waited for legal clarification on the Control of Goods (Import and Export) (Commerce) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 (No. 13).

By following these dos and don’ts, and seeking advice from ZIMRA, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce Zimbabwe as well as experienced freight forwarders, returning residents can ensure a smooth relocation process, avoiding unnecessary delays, frustrations and costs.