By Inzwirashe C. Muwonwa, ZIMRA International Desk
The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) will join the global customs community in commemorating International Customs Day on 26 January 2026, an annual event that shines a spotlight on the vital role customs administrations play in safeguarding societies while facilitating legitimate trade.
Observed worldwide under the World Customs Organization (WCO), International Customs Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the evolving responsibilities of customs authorities in a rapidly changing global environment.
This year’s theme, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment,” highlights vigilance, professionalism and dedication as pillars in protecting communities, economies and borders.
Smuggling of illegal goods and circumvention of taxes remain a major challenge in Zimbabwe.
ZIMRA’s enforcement operations in 2025 focused on curbing illicit trade and protecting public revenue. Many of the seized goods were contraband illegally imported to avoid payment of customs duties and taxes, undermining national revenue collection, distorting fair trade and exposing consumers to unregulated products.
Among the intercepted items were alcoholic beverages, meat and meat products, hardware and electrical goods, fridges, soft drinks and other foodstuffs. Second-hand clothing, gold, pharmaceuticals, cannabis, skin-lightening creams, cement, shoes, new clothing and motor vehicles were also commonly smuggled.
“These seizures reflect ZIMRA’s unwavering commitment to protecting society and ensuring fair trade,” said Ms Regina Chinamasa, Commissioner General of ZIMRA.
“We remain vigilant at all ports of entry and within domestic markets, using technology, intelligence-led operations and collaboration with other agencies to safeguard public revenue and uphold compliance.”
This year’s International Customs Day will be commemorated at Plumtree Border Post, highlighting ZIMRA’s customer-focused approach, adoption of digital solutions and firm stance against smuggling, fraud and other cross-border crimes.
Through technology-driven reforms, intelligence-led enforcement and continuous staff capacity building, the Authority aligns with international best practices while responding to Zimbabwe’s local economic realities.
Beyond revenue collection, ZIMRA protects society from harmful and prohibited goods, supports national security and contributes to economic growth.
International Customs Day is therefore not only a celebration but also a reaffirmation of the Authority’s pledge to operate with integrity, transparency and professionalism.
As Zimbabwe positions itself as a competitive player in regional and global trade, ZIMRA’s role remains pivotal.
The observance of International Customs Day serves as a reminder that effective customs administration is a shared responsibility, requiring collaboration with government agencies, traders and the public to build safe borders and a prosperous nation.