The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has promulgated Statutory Instrument (SI) 59 of 2026, a consolidated regulatory framework that replaces 16 separate legal instruments governing imports and exports, to enhance the ease of doing business.
In a statement yesterday, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, said the new law, developed following extensive stakeholder consultations.
“Historically, the regulation of imports and exports was dispersed across 16 separate Statutory Instruments. This fragmented approach often resulted in administrative inefficiencies, confusion among stakeholders, and difficulties in identifying the precise regulations applicable to specific goods.
Such complexity posed unnecessary bottlenecks to trade and industry compliance,” the Ministry added.
The Ministry also confirmed that all previous instruments have been formally repealed.
“This consolidation simplifies the regulatory landscape, providing a one-stop reference point for all regulated products, thereby reducing compliance costs and administrative burdens for businesses.
Beyond consolidation, SI 59 of 2026 expands the scope of regulated goods to reflect current industrial realities and emerging trends,” the statement read.
The Ministry noted that the additions were a direct outcome of consultative engagements with manufacturing sectors and industry bodies.
“The expanded list of regulated goods now includes water treatment chemicals, footwear, noodles and related pasta products, engineering products, as well as iron and steel products.
This ensures that the regulatory framework remains responsive to the economy’s evolving needs,” the Ministry added.
To facilitate ease of access, stakeholders are encouraged to utilize the online application platform accessible via zimeservices.pfims.gov.zw.
For businesses requiring in-person assistance, the Ministry has decentralized its services through provincial offices located in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Masvingo, Chinhoyi, Bindura, Gwanda, Lupane, and Marondera.
“The Ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to providing seamless and efficient services,” the statement concluded.
The promulgation of SI 59 of 2026 forms part of broader public sector reforms aimed at improving Zimbabwe’s investment climate.
The country has in recent years undertaken various measures to streamline business registration, simplify tax compliance, and digitize government services under the national ease of doing business strategy.
