Import controls under SI 59 seen boosting local industry, analysts say

HARARE — Zimbabwe’s newly introduced import restrictions under Statutory Instrument (SI) 59 of 2026 are expected to strengthen local manufacturing and protect domestic industries, according to fresh analysis by Lucent Consultancy. The regulations, issued under the Control of Goods Act, mark a significant shift in the country’s trade policy, with authorities aiming to curb foreign currency outflows, enhance product standards, and stimulate domestic production.

The new framework tightens controls on a wide range of goods, including:

• Cement and steel

• Footwear and textiles

• Selected food products

• Consumer goods

Certain items, such as second-hand underwear, are now fully banned, while others require import licences under stricter conditions.

Lucent Consultancy described the policy as a move toward “strategic protection” of domestic industries, signalling a departure from earlier liberalised trade approaches.

“This represents a deliberate policy pivot toward safeguarding local production capacity and advancing economic sovereignty,” the firm said.

The consultancy noted that sectors such as construction, textiles, and pharmaceuticals stand to benefit from reduced competition from imports.

A key feature of SI 59 is the consolidation of 16 previously separate statutory instruments into a single regulatory framework. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce said the previous system created inefficiencies and delays, which the unified approach seeks to address. Authorities say the reforms are aligned with broader economic blueprints, including the National Development Strategy 2 and the country’s Vision 2030 agenda.

The regulations also grant increased discretionary authority to the Permanent Secretary for Industry and Commerce in approving or rejecting import licences. Decisions will be guided by criteria such as:

• Compliance with safety and quality standards

• National economic interest

• Protection of local industries

Analysts say this mechanism could help prevent Zimbabwe from becoming a dumping ground for substandard goods.

The policy is integrated with the ZimConnect Portal, which is designed to streamline licensing processes through online applications. This digital shift is expected to reduce bureaucratic delays and improve transparency in trade administration.

While the reforms are widely seen as beneficial for domestic producers, Lucent Consultancy cautioned that tighter import controls may lead to short-term price increases for consumers.

“Initial supply constraints could push prices upward, but over time, increased local production should stabilise the market,” the report noted.

Economist Gift Mugano said the success of the policy will depend on local industry capacity.

“Protection alone is not enough. Local manufacturers must scale up production, maintain quality and remain competitive,” he said.

If effectively implemented, SI 59 of 2026 could play a pivotal role in accelerating Zimbabwe’s industrialisation drive, boosting job creation, and reducing reliance on imports. However, analysts emphasise that transparency, consistency in policy enforcement, and support for local producers will be critical to achieving the intended outcomes. As Zimbabwe recalibrates its trade strategy, the new import regime is set to become a key test of the country’s broader economic transformation agenda.

SI 59 Zimbabwe import restrictions