THE EFFECTS OF STATUTORY INSTRUMENT 64 OF 2016 ON CLEARING AGENTS BASED AT BEITBRIDGE BORDER POST IN ZIMBABWE

THE EFFECTS OF STATUTORY INSTRUMENT 64 OF 2016 ON CLEARING AGENTS BASED AT BEITBRIDGE BORDER POST IN ZIMBABWE

STANLEY IDANAI MURANGWA

TAVONGA NJAYA

The current study sought to explore the effects of Statutory Instrument Number 64 of 2016 on the
business of clearing agents based at Beitbridge Border Post. The study used qualitative research and an
exploratory research design. Data were collected through focus group discussions, in-depth interviews,
document reviews and observations. Four basic categories of clearing agents were identified at the Beitbridge
Border Post, namely, agents who worked for large firms such as multinationals and stock exchange listed firms;
agents who worked for small enterprises; self-employed individuals; and the ―briefcase‖ agent. The study
revealed that the major challenges faced by clearing agents due to the introduction of Statutory Instrument
Number 64 of 2016 included delays in customs formalities, loss of reputation due to unethical behavior, lack of
training and skills and limited infrastructure. The researchers discovered that the effects of Statutory Instrument
Number 64 of 2016 on clearing agents were loss of business due to reduced importation of goods by traders, the
threat of salary cuts and job losses, worse standards of living due to increased prices of the few imported goods
that found their way into the economy coupled with increases in prices of locally produced goods from nascent
firms and poor quality goods. The researchers recommended that government should educate, train and equip
clearing agents with knowledge and information on the requirements of Statutory Instrument Number 64 of
2016 and ensure that the customs clearing system is always functional to avoid delays.

International Journal of Business and Management Invention

2016