The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has warned importers and travellers that second-hand clothes, commonly known as mabhero, remain banned unless a special permit has been obtained, and that second-hand undergarments are not permitted into the country under any circumstances.
In a public notice, ZIMRA said: “The public is reminded that second-hand clothing known as mabhero is not permitted to enter the country unless you have been issued with a licence from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce stating that you are importing them for charitable purposes, and furthermore, second-hand undergarments are not permitted to enter the country at all.”
The authority said the ban is intended “to protect public health from diseases that may be introduced through these clothes and to support the local clothing industry.”
ZIMRA stressed that second-hand clothing is prohibited unless imported under a valid permit for charitable purposes only, while second-hand undergarments are strictly banned under all circumstances.
The reminder comes as authorities continue to clamp down on bales of used clothing at border posts, which officials say undermine local textile manufacturers and pose health risks.
Only registered charities with a valid import licence from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce are allowed to bring in second-hand clothing, and even then, it must be for distribution to vulnerable groups and not for resale.
ZIMRA reiterated that no exceptions will be made for second-hand underwear, bras or other undergarments, which remain strictly prohibited under all circumstances.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply