Published: 6 hours ago

Bata Shoe Company has commended the Government's ongoing anti-smuggling campaign, saying it has helped revitalise operations and boost employment, with the company's workforce increasing to about 1 350 employees, up from 1 200 last year.

The remarks came during a visit to the Gweru factory by Ministry of Industry and Commerce Permanent Secretary, Dr Thomas Utete Wushe, held on the sidelines of the Ministry's Strategic Planning Workshop.

Bata country manager Simon Mutisya told The Herald Finance and Business that the clampdown on smuggling had created a fairer market environment, allowing the local manufacturer to increase production and profitability.

"We employ 1 000 workers directly and 350 indirectly," said Mutisya. "Last year, we had 900 directly and around 300 indirectly."

He credited the company's growth to supportive government policies, particularly the Local Content Strategy, which encourages domestic procurement and industrial recovery.

"Several institutions, including those in the security sector, are now purchasing footwear in bulk from Bata," he noted.

Launched last year, the anti-smuggling campaign - led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce's Taskforce on Business Malpractices - aims to curb illegal imports that undercut local manufacturers. The initiative has been widely welcomed by Zimbabwean producers as a measure that protects local industry and promotes competitiveness.

Mutisya said Bata's Gweru operations are now producing high-quality footwear that competes favourably with regional brands. However, he urged authorities to further ease the cost of doing business, citing rising municipal rates, levies and utility bills as challenges.

He also noted foreign currency constraints, as most suppliers of raw materials demand US dollar payments despite the company selling its products in local currency.

"The company imports some chemicals and rubber, while hides, canvas and other materials are sourced locally from merchants and David Whitehead Textiles," he explained.

Mutisya said Bata's revival has strengthened value chains in Zimbabwe's leather and footwear industry, though he warned that unregulated street vending remains a threat to formal retailers.

He reaffirmed the company's commitment to growth, saying Bata's resurgence would continue to contribute meaningfully to industrialisation and job creation.
- The Herald

You might also want to read this

• Bata calls on RBZ to hike incentive
• Bata sees increase in workforce
• Bata invests $500 000 in gumboot plant
• Bata dangles $500 for voluntary retrenchments
• Bata upgrades factory plant
• Bata dangles voluntary retrenchment packages
• Bata to increase Pata Pata, Sandak production
• Bata employees win wage increment case
• Bata pushes for ban of hides exports