Livestock Sector Freed from Red Tape

Government has announced sweeping regulatory reforms for the agriculture sector, targeting livestock, dairy, and stockfeed industries, in a move aimed at cutting costs, attracting investment, and boosting productivity.

Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister, Prof. Mthuli Ncube, said in a statement in possession of Hurumende News Hub that the reforms form part of Zimbabwe’s broader Ease of Doing Business agenda and align with President Mnangagwa’s vision of making the country an attractive destination for investment.

“These reforms will significantly reduce the cost of compliance for farmers and processors, eliminate duplication, and improve efficiency,” Ncube said. “By creating a conducive environment, we are supporting rural livelihoods, strengthening exports, and positioning Zimbabwe as a leader in agricultural competitiveness.”

 

The new framework is the product of a multi-stakeholder process led by the Office of the President and Cabinet, with technical assistance from the World Bank. It will be rolled out sector by sector, starting with agriculture.

Previously, dairy farmers required up to 25 permits from 12 agencies, while feed manufacturers needed 23 permits across 10 departments.

Abattoirs, cattle farmers, and processors all faced similarly burdensome requirements, which government said discouraged formalization and growth.

Under the new structure:

• Farm registration fees have been slashed to $1 flat for smallholders, while large-scale farmers will now pay only $50.
• Dairy processor registration has dropped from $350 annually to a one-time $50 fee.
• Feed manufacturing registration fees, previously ranging from $150 to $250, are now $20 flat.
• Livestock movement permits have been cut to $5 per herd, down from $10 per animal.
• Import permits for livestock genetics such as heifers, bulls, and semen have been reduced from $100 to $20.

The minister stressed that agriculture remains the mainstay of Zimbabwe’s economy, supporting 65 percent of rural livelihoods and driving the bulk of the country’s exports.

Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Hon. Vangelis Peter Haritatos, said the changes were a direct response to the President’s directive for a more investor-friendly economy.

“We do not work in silos in Government, we work as one,” Haritatos said.

 

“His Excellency President Mnangagwa has ordered we lower costs and that the ‘ease of doing business’ in Zimbabwe takes the forefront. We have heeded His Excellency’s call, and more changes will follow.”