ZIMRA Introduces Online System for Exporters’ Trade Certification

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has taken a bold step towards modernising trade processes by launching a new digital platform for the issuance of COMESA Certificates of Origin.

This development is expected to simplify trade procedures and reduce processing times for exporters.

The newly adopted electronic system hosted on the Zimbabwe Electronic Single Window (ZeSW) platform—completely replaces the traditional manual process. This innovation places Zimbabwe among the leaders in implementing COMESA’s Digital Free Trade Area vision, promoting seamless, paperless trade across the region.

COMESA Certificates of Origin are vital documents that allow Zimbabwean exporters to benefit from preferential tariff treatment when trading within the 21-member Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) bloc.

With the new platform, traders will now enjoy instant document processing, faster approval times, and enhanced security features. The system also enables customs officers to verify certificates in real time, helping to curb document fraud and ensure the integrity of trade transactions.

ZIMRA has set August 1, 2025, as the deadline for full transition to the digital system. From that date forward, physical certificates will no longer be accepted for regional trade, making digital compliance mandatory.

“This marks a significant milestone in our journey to simplify and secure trade processes,” said a ZIMRA official. “We encourage all exporters, agents, and trade practitioners to register on the ZeSW platform as soon as possible to avoid disruptions.”

To fully benefit from the new system, businesses involved in exporting must register on ZeSW, train staff in digital certificate procedures, and update their internal processes to comply with the new requirements.

This move is part of a broader national effort to boost Zimbabwe’s trade efficiency through digital transformation—cutting down paperwork, enhancing transparency, and speeding up trade-related approvals from days to just minutes.