Published: 21 October 2013

Zimbabwe today received three mobile container scanners worth $10,5 million from the Chinese Government to help curb smuggling of illegal goods into the country.

Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Lin Lin handed over the scanners to the Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa at a ceremony held at the Manica Freight container depot in Lochinvar, Harare.

Speaking at the handover ceremony of the scanners, Zimra commissioner general Mr Gershom Pasi said the scanners will be deployed at all container docks in Zimbabwe to expedite customs clearance.

"Container scanning or non-intrusive inspection equipment will increase the number of consignments that receive customs attention without causing any delay.

"The scanners will be moved to ports of entry where containers are arriving throughout the country," he said.

He added that the equipment will be critical in ensuring that the inspection of high risk containers or cargo is done expeditiously without disrupting the flow of legitimate trade.

Speaking at the same occasion, Finance and Economic minister Mr Patrick Chinamasa hailed the Chinese Government for its continued support to Zimbabwe saying that this latest donation will further strengthen the trust and mutual co-operation that exists between the two countries.

"The use of these scanners and specially trained dogs will enhance Zimra's fight against smuggling of goods and other harmful substances," he said.
- herald

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