The ban on importing vehicles more than 10 years old, implemented in January 2022, is a key element of Zimbabwe’s effort to safeguard and revive its domestic motor manufacturing sector, which has been under pressure from the influx of more affordable used car imports.

This is according to the country’s Industry and Commerce Minister, Mangaliso Nqozitha Ndlovu.

Minister Ndlovu stated that at its peak in the 1990s, the local motor industry provided jobs for over 70,000 people. However, the sector has experienced an 80% reduction in employment across its various sub-sectors, primarily due to intense competition from the influx of second-hand vehicles.

“At its height, the automotive sector was the cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s manufacturing industry, but over time, it has faced severe challenges. Currently, it is operating below 5% capacity utilisation compared to 90% in its prime,” said Ndlovu.

The Minister’s remarks were in response to concerns raised by Hwange East legislator, Joseph Bonda (CCC), who questioned the import ban given that local motor manufacturing was not yet fully operational to meet demand, The Zimbabwe Mail reports.

Furthermore, Ndlovu clarified that the government’s plan to gradually eliminate the importation of vehicles older than 10 years by 2030 is designed to revive the local industry.

The policy seeks to increase the annual sales of vehicles, which once averaged around 20,000 units before the sector's decline. By supporting local manufacturers, the government aims to generate employment and contribute to Zimbabwe’s broader economic objectives, as outlined in the National Vision 2030.

“In the 1990s, the motor industry employed more than 70,000 people, and these jobs spanned various industries, including tyre manufacturing, with companies like Dunlop being major players. The ban is part of a broader policy initiative to regenerate the local motor industry, and it includes measures such as pre-shipment inspections for imported vehicles to ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards,” Ndlovu added.

The Minister also highlighted the financial strain vehicle imports place on the economy, revealing that Zimbabwe spent an estimated $664 million on vehicle imports in 2023 alone.

The import ban, along with other supportive measures outlined in the Zimbabwe Motor Industry Development Policy, aims to foster a more favourable business environment, boost local manufacturing, and ultimately generate sustainable employment opportunities for thousands of Zimbabweans.