Zimra On Track To Meet Its Revised Annual Revenue Collection

By Shingirai Vambe

Harare-The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) says it is on track to meet its revised annual revenue collection target of US$7.57 billion, driven by a broader and more formalised tax base, enhanced digital systems, and tighter border controls.

Speaking at the ZIMRA Taxpayers Appreciation Awards on Thursday, the revenue collection agency board chairperson, Anthony Mandiwanza said revenue performance was improving in both magnitude and quality, reflecting an economy that is slowly becoming more diversified and competitive.

“This year, our revised annual revenue collection target is USD$ 7.57 billion. Beyond the magnitude of this figure, what is important to the board is the quality and sustainability of the revenue base, a base that is broader, more diversified and less dependent on a few sectors.

“Looking ahead, our medium-term projections including the USD$ 9.2 billion envisaged for 2026 and the longer-term revenue path towards 2030 are aligned to the country’s growth aspirations under Vision 2030 and NDS 1 and 2.

“These are not just big numbers but they reflect an economy that is formalising, growing and becoming more competitive,” he said.

Mandiwanza also said while the Minister of Finance continues to review the tax regime to enhance the ease of doing business, their board is equally focused on their side of the bargain by simplifying processes, reducing compliance costs, embracing technology and nurturing a culture of partnership rather than confrontation.

The board chair said revenue gains are being propelled by digital transformation, particularly the rollout of the Tax and Revenue Management System (TaRMS), ASYCUDA World, the Zimbabwe Electronic Single Window and the Fiscalisation Data Management System.

These platforms, he added, have significantly expanded the number of taxpayers entering the formal tax net.

“More small, medium and large businesses are now visible in the tax database not through fear, but through simpler processes, better service and smarter systems,” he said.

Mandiwanza highlighted that the ultimate goal is to make compliance seamless and cost-effective.

“Our goal is simply to make it easier to comply than to evade, and to make the agency a true facilitator of business, trade and investment,” he said.

Mandiwanza indicated that the authority’s long-term vision is that businesses should be able to register, file and pay taxes from anywhere, clear goods faster at borders, and interact with ZIMRA through fully integrated and user-friendly digital platforms.

He also said the tax agency will be intensifying its anti-smuggling operations, adding that the move was designed to protect both the market and public health.

“We have approved a robust anti-smuggling programme which includes the strategic deployment of drones and enhanced border management systems.

“These measures have successfully intercepted unsafe products and medicines at our ports of entry, safeguarding citizens while reinforcing the integrity and competitiveness of commerce in the country,” said Mandiwanza.

Turning to the awards, the board chair said this year’s recipients were selected through a fully data-driven process, using ZIMRA’s interconnected digital systems with minimal human intervention.

Mandiwanza said the shift to automated assessment underscores the authority’s commitment to fairness and transparency.

“This approach demonstrates the agency’s serious commitment to digitalisation and merit-based recognition. Taxpayers honoured today consistently filed on time, paid on time, and maintained a strong compliance record.”

He said parameters for selection included revenue contribution, sectoral impact, consistency and compliance history.

Mandiwanza noted that ZIMRA continues to expand taxpayer access through nationwide offices, border stations, mobile units and digital kiosks, ensuring that “no one and no place is left behind.”

He said these interventions are particularly vital for Small to Medium Enterprises(SME`s) and taxpayers with limited connectivity or resources.

Mandiwanza commended compliant taxpayers for their role in sustaining national development.

“These exemplary taxpayers demonstrate that integrity, diligence and patriotic partnership are the foundations of national transformation,” the board chair said.

Companies such as PPC Zimbabwe Supermarkets, Mimosa Mining, PetroZim,Econet Wireless,Stanbic,Africa Sun received awards.

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