CZI Leads Push for Regulatory Reforms to Cut Red Tape

The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) has introduced a senior-level programme aimed at strengthening Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) capacity across major policy-making institutions. The initiative is intended to reshape Zimbabwe’s regulatory environment by reducing compliance costs and simplifying the process of doing business.

As Zimbabwe advances into 2026, Government has begun implementing a range of statutory instruments to entrench ongoing business reforms. CZI believes the RIA framework will play a central role in this process by ensuring that new regulations are informed by data and economic analysis rather than administrative procedures alone.

Public–Private Collaboration to Boost Competitiveness

The programme is anchored on cooperation between government and the private sector, drawing participation from key institutions that include the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the National Competitiveness Commission, the Competition and Tariff Commission, and the National Economic Consultative Forum.

Through spearheading the RIA implementation process, CZI seeks to align stakeholders around a common objective of building a predictable and competitive regulatory system that supports growth across sectors such as mining, tourism, retail, and agriculture.

Implementing the RIA Framework

At an inception workshop facilitated by technical advisors Genesis Analytics, participants examined practical approaches to reviewing and reforming existing regulations, with a focus on reducing unnecessary administrative barriers.

Genesis Analytics economist Emma Green noted that the initiative will involve a detailed review of current regulatory frameworks over the coming months to improve the overall investment climate. CZI emphasised that the effectiveness of RIA will depend on two key foundations: first, developing a comprehensive understanding of existing regulatory constraints; and second, clearly defining the problems regulations are intended to address to avoid unintended market distortions.

CZI described the initiative as an important move toward evidence-driven policymaking and a more efficient regulatory system that enhances economic competitiveness.

Economic Context and Growth Prospects

The regulatory reform drive coincides with positive economic projections for Zimbabwe. Treasury officials have linked the outlook to disciplined fiscal policies, sustained investment in priority sectors such as energy, manufacturing and agriculture, and consistent monetary measures that support long-term industrial development.

By encouraging early consultation with stakeholders and focusing on effective, data-based regulation, Zimbabwe is strengthening its appeal as a destination for both domestic and international investment.