Published: 07 May 2018

Local companies have raised concerns over breakdowns of clearing systems at border posts that are costing the economy millions of dollars in potential earnings or revenue.

Instances of clearance system breakdowns at the country's border posts are creating challenges in terms of capacity to increase production and sustain demand for produced goods and services within the economy.

A customs and tax expert Mr Eliphas Moyo says failure to complete the automated system for customs data (ascyuda) by the stipulated time frame is likely to add more challenges mainly for companies importing working capital or machinery to revive operations.

"It is a key cause of concern to this economy and we are wondering whether such an element can be rectified as we seek to boost revenue inflows in this economy," said Mr Moyo

Contacted for comment, ZIMRA board chairman Mrs Willia Bonyongwe says while the authority has noted inefficiencies at the ports of entry, upgrading works will be finalised by next month for the benefit of traders.

"The finalisation of the entire system will be done by next month and we hope this will further boost technical systems in this country and we can forge ahead," Mrs Bonyongwe said.

The current electronic system at border posts has in the past few months not been performing optimally causing inconveniences to clients particularly on e-filing and getting tax clearance certificates yet regional and neighbouring economies such as South Africa, Kenya, Mozambique and Mauritius are using modern equipment. 
- zbc

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