Government has tightened the screws on foreign operators in reserved sectors, setting January 31 as the final deadline to submit regularisation plans in line with Statutory Instrument 215 of 2025.
Under the new regulations, foreign-owned businesses must cede, at least, 75 percent shareholding to locals within the next three years, with the remaining 25 percent to be transferred thereafter to ensure full Zimbabwean ownership.
In a statement, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce instructed all affected businesses to submit their regularisation plans at any of its provincial offices across the country.
“The Ministry of Industry and Commerce wishes to remind all stakeholders regarding Statutory Instrument 215 of 2025 on the Reserved Sector Regulations. All foreigners operating in the Reserved Sectors must submit Regularisation Plans by January 31, 2026, at any Ministry office in Harare, Bulawayo, Masvingo, Mutare, Chinhoyi, Gweru, Bindura, Marondera, Gwanda and Lupane.
“The Ministry also advises stakeholders that a valid proof of payment for the Standards Development Fund (SDF) Levy is a prerequisite. SDF Levies can now be paid at the Ministry’s Mukwati Building offices for ease of doing business,” the statement reads.
Government said the policy aims to protect local participation in critical sectors while broadening economic opportunities for Zimbabweans. The reserved sectors include barber shops and hair salons, retail trading, passenger and haulage transport services, pharmaceuticals, and artisanal or small-scale gold mining, among others.
Authorities emphasised that the measures are not intended to deter investment, but to promote inclusive growth by empowering local entrepreneurs and ensuring meaningful Zimbabwean participation in strategic value chains. They warned that failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe may result in penalties under the law.
Meanwhile, the Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) has expressed support for the reserved-sector legislation. CZR president, Denford Mutashu, said the regulations were designed to preserve economic spaces for citizens while directing foreign investment toward large-scale, capital-intensive sectors.
CZR also welcomed the introduction of minimum investment and employment thresholds for foreign investors. Under the new framework, foreign players in retail and wholesale trade must employ at least 200 people and invest US$20 million. In grain milling, investors are required to commit US$25 million and employ 50 workers, while haulage and logistics operators must invest US$10 million and have 100 employees.
The organisation further applauded the directive requiring manufacturers to channel their products through locally owned wholesale and retail networks, saying the move would strengthen indigenous enterprises and support a more balanced and competitive marketplace.
“This provision directly empowers local traders and ensures that value chains benefit Zimbabwean businesses instead of being dominated by foreign interests,” Mutashu added.
