ZNCC lobbies for gradual reserved sector compliance

THE Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce has proposed a gradual and sequenced compliance with reserved sector laws to avoid disrupting business operations and undermining investor confidence. ZNCC endorsed the objectives of the regulations, but called for clarity, calibrated implementation and strong institutional coordination to safeguard investment and economic stability. The lobby group said the implementation must take into account existing investments and operational realities.

It said the pace and structure of implementation will determine whether the policy strengthens domestic enterprise development or inadvertently constrains economic activity. Under SI 215 of 2025, 13 sectors have been exclusively reserved for Zimbabweans. These include artisanal and small-scale mining, barber shops, hairdressing and beauty salons, employment agencies, valet services, passenger transport services such as buses, taxis, and car hire, customs clearing, tobacco grading and packaging, bakeries, advertising agencies, estate agencies, pharmaceutical retailing, borehole drilling and marketing and distribution of local arts and crafts. ZNCC said that a compressed transition timeline could create compliance pressures, particularly for companies with complex shareholding structures and long-term contractual obligations.