Zimbabwe is a country in Southern Africa. It is bordered by Zambia to the north, Botswana to the west, Mozambique and South Africa to the east and Mozambique and South Africa to the south-west. The country has three national parks: Hwange, Matobo and Gonarezhou. Zimbabwe also has 10 protected areas under wildlife laws: Chimanimani National Park; Gonarezhou National Park; Eastern Highlands Waterfalls National Park; Nyanga National Park; Victoria Falls National Park; Matusadona National Park: Mana Pools National Park; Marongora Conservation Area and Zambezi River Wetlands.
The Laws
There are several laws and regulations that affect businesses in Zimbabwe. These laws are important for protecting the rights of employees, customers and suppliers as well as for investors. They also protect the environment. The following list gives an overview of some key pieces of legislation:
- Labour Code (Chapter 16:01)
- Companies Act (Chapter 21:01)
- Competition Act (Chapter 17:02)
Starting a business in Zimbabwe requires registration with the Registrar General’s Office.
Starting a business in Zimbabwe requires registration with the Registrar General’s Office. To register, you must apply for a certificate of registration and pay a fee. You will also need to provide information about your business and its directors.
The Zimbabwe Investment Authority (ZIA) is the government agency responsible for the promotion of foreign direct investment in Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwe Investment Authority (ZIA) is the government agency responsible for the promotion of foreign direct investment in Zimbabwe. ZIA provides advice and assistance to investors and acts as their main point of contact. The authority also plays an important role in ensuring that all new businesses comply with relevant laws and regulations, including those related to taxation, labour law and safety standards.
Zimbabwe’s economy has experienced rapid growth since 2000 due largely to its mining sector which accounts for over half of GDP growth annually since 2004 when it recorded a GDP increase of 17%.
The Ministry of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (MSME) is the main government body responsible for small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe.
The Ministry of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (MSME) is the main government body responsible for small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe. It is responsible for the promotion of foreign direct investment in Zimbabwe as well as the development of the small and medium enterprise sector.
The MSME was established by Act No. 21 of 2012, which came into force on 1 July 2013 following amendments made by Act No 4 of 2013. The current minister is Sithembiso Nyoni who has been serving since December 2018 after succeeding Peter Moyo who had been appointed Minister since 2017 but resigned after being accused of corruption charges against him by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce oversees all aspects of commerce, industry and services in Zimbabwe.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce oversees all aspects of commerce, industry and services in Zimbabwe. The ministry is responsible for regulating the industry as well as promoting it. It also enforces laws that govern commerce, industry and service providers in Zimbabwe.
The Department of Industry and Commerce is responsible for promoting entrepreneurship development across the country by providing support services to small businesses through their Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP).
It is worth noting that there are other government departments which may assist you with setting up your business such as:
To start a business in Zimbabawe you need to know your legal requirements
- Register with the Registrar General’s Office.
- Register with the Zimbabwe Investment Authority (ZIA).
- Register with the Ministry of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (MSME).
- Register with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC).
Conclusion
Starting a business in Zimbabwe is not difficult. The country has a well-developed infrastructure and a stable economy. There are many opportunities for foreign investors, especially those with experience in mining or agriculture.
