Government intensifies anti-smuggling campaign to...

Government intensifies anti-smuggling campaign to safeguard economy

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zimnow Reporter

The government has launched a nationwide anti-smuggling campaign to combat illicit trade that continues to bleed the country’s economy of critical revenue.

Addressing stakeholders Tuesday, Secretary for Presidential Affairs and Devolution, Engineer T. Muguti, emphasized the urgent need to root out smuggling as it threatens economic growth, security, and local manufacturing.

The operation implemented under the direction of His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa targets smugglers operating along Zimbabwe’s porous borders and highways.

Engineer Muguti highlighted that smuggling costs the country an estimated US$1 billion annually in lost revenue.

“Smuggling not only deprives the government of revenue but also undermines local industries, health standards, and national security. This campaign will ensure that law enforcement agencies and task forces are empowered to stop smuggling at every level,” said Eng. Muguti.

The campaign comes at a critical time as the festive season approaches, a period notorious for heightened smuggling activities, particularly by returning expatriates.

“The festive season has always presented a challenge, with many trying to evade customs duties on goods such as clothing, alcohol, fuel, and food. This operation will ensure such practices are curbed,” Eng. Muguti added.

The campaign will see the deployment of multi-agency teams comprising the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), police, and immigration officials, among others.

Roadblocks will be established across highways leading into major cities, and travelers will be subjected to thorough inspections to ensure compliance with customs regulations

. “All second-hand clothes will be confiscated and destroyed, smuggled food items will be seized and donated to charity, while smuggled vehicles and illegal substances will be impounded,” Eng. Muguti stated.

Security forces have also been directed to intensify surveillance and arrest offenders, who risk hefty fines, imprisonment, or both.

Smuggling remains a major drain on Zimbabwe’s economy, stifling growth and discouraging investment.

Unfair competition arising from tax evasion has crippled local manufacturers, while health and safety risks loom from unchecked food and pharmaceutical products.

Statistics show that Zimbabwe is losing substantial revenue as smugglers exploit porous border points to evade taxes.

“Smuggling has far-reaching consequences; it is linked to corruption, organized crime, and job losses in legitimate businesses,” Eng. Muguti noted.

Authorities also cited the illegal movement of firearms and contraband as major contributors to rising criminal activity.

The Cabinet launched the Anti-Smuggling Campaign in November 2024 across all 10 provinces as part of a broader initiative to secure borders and restore economic integrity.

The campaign aligned with President Mnangagwa’s vision of a corruption-free and self-sustaining economy.

Eng. Muguti called on all citizens to report smuggling activities, emphasizing that collaboration is essential in winning the fight against illicit trade.

“Smuggling is everyone’s problem. By allowing it to persist, we deprive ourselves of vital development resources. Together, we can stop it,” he said.

The anti-smuggling campaign is expected to deliver significant results over the coming months, protecting local industries, securing jobs, and boosting government revenue critical for national development.