Zimbabwe - VAT, customs duty suspended on basic commodities

The Zimbabwe government recently announced changes to the VAT and customs rules:

• VAT: Several products have been added to the list of zero-rated items for VAT purposes (e.g., various basic commodities, corn flour, sugar, soap, etc.). Zero rating of a supply ensures that goods are provided free of VAT. A registered VAT entrepreneur that makes zero-rated supplies must claim the zero-rated supply on its VAT return and can claim input tax credit with respect to the supply.
• Customs: Customs duty and VAT are suspended on the import of the same basic commodities items as from 12 May 2023.
   

Pauline Mukamba
Robbie Maremero
BDO in Zimbabwe