Zimbabwe is a high net importer of Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment and gadgets due to the absence of localized production plants such as HP, Dell, Cisco, Canon, Apple etc. This is despite the fact that the country has a high demand for ICT gadgets and other IT peripherals.
However, many importers struggle to settle the high duty fees pegged by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). The tax authority has relaxed its duty system on ICT equipment and here is how you can import your gadgets free of duty.
First of all, ZIMRA early this year published a circular stating that computers, cell-phones and other selected information and communication products & gadgets can be imported duty free. Customs Duty on the importation of products listed in the table below was scrapped in order to promote the development of the information and communication technology sector.
| PRODUCT | TARIFF
CODE |
CUSTOMS
DUTY |
VAT |
| Computer (desktop) | 8471 5000 | free | 15% |
| Laptop/palm top/I-pad | 8471 3000 | free | 15% |
| Printer/scanner | 8471 6090 | free | 15% |
| Computer software | 8523 4910 | free | 15% |
| Braille computers | 8471 6010 | free | 15% |
| Computer parts and accessories | 8473 3000 | free | 15% |
| Base stations/ boosters | 8517 6100 | free | 15% |
| Cell-phone | 8517 1210 | free | 15% |
| Cordless handset | 8517 1100 | free | 15% |
| Radar apparatus | 8526 1000 | free | 15% |
| Aircraft communication or navigation apparatus | 8525;8526 and 8527 | free | 15% |
How to clear the goods
Commercials imports have to be cleared on a Bill of Entry Form 21 through a registered clearing agent. If the goods are less than US$1,000 (one thousand Untied States Dollars) they can be cleared on a Form 49 with or without the use of the services of a clearing agent.
None merchandise goods imported by private individuals (private imports) attract Import Duty at a flat rate of 40 per cent, except in situations where one elects for the use of the appropriate Customs tariff prior to clearance. Private imports can be cleared on a document used for private clearance (Form 49) without the use of a clearing agent.
Which documents need to be attached to the declaration on clearance?
- Invoice from the supplier
- Consignment note/freight statement (where applicable)
- Export documents from the country of export ( where applicable)
- Permits/licences from the relevant issuing authorities, for instance POTRAZ (where applicable)
- Any other relevant documents that may be requested by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA)
Please Note:
- The above list is not exhaustive. Customs Duty rates for other products not listed can be obtained upon request from your nearest ZIMRA office, or can be obtained from the ZIMRA website.
- Goods have to be properly declared and entered for clearance at the point of entry.
- VAT is still payable at 15 per cent.
Disclaimer: This article was compiled using data published by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority for information purposes only. ZIMRA shall not accept responsibility for loss or damage arising from use of material in this article and no liability will attach to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority.
