This document was submitted in response to a questionnaire distributed by Global Hand regarding humanitarian customs information. It provides regulations for importing humanitarian aid into Zimbabwe.

Required Documents

• Written particulars are needed of:
• the object of the association or organisation; and
• the goods in respect of which a rebate is sought; and
• the use of which the goods are to be put; and
• evidence of the donation; and
• evidence of purchase of goods by a foreign organisation which is donating the goods; and
• any other details required by the Commissioner. Furthermore a certificate is needed to the effect that the goods in respect of which the rebate is claimed are being imported solely for free distribution among presons in need and will not be sold on without the permission of the Commissioner.

Prohibited Goods

• Weapons and ammunition (application to import must be made to the Secretary of Home Affairs)
• Drugs
• Pornographic material
• Citrus fruits, plants and seeds subject to an Import License
• Forged documents and counterfeit money

Tax Exemption

Zimbabwe does offer a rebate on humanitarian cargo, provided the neccessary documents are provided and the shipment includes no new clothing, footwear and bed linen, second hand and used motor vehicles and goods paid for with funds obtained from local banking institutions or local branches of banking institutions registered or operating in Zimbabwe. It also has to be specifically imported for free distribution among persons in need by an international or regional organisation, body or agency designed by the Minister as a relief organisation, body or agency.

Pre-shipment Application

Needs to be completed to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority Offices through which goods will be imported.

Monetary Valuation

Zimbabwe requires monetary valuation for the shipment on an individual item basis.

Other info

Approval of the organisation and the goods concerned should take place prior to shipment of goods to Zimbabwe.