Zimstar News
South Africa based ex-Zimbabwe footballer Gabriel Nyoni has warned Zimbabwe risked massive unemployment following its decision to suspend duty on a basket of listed basic commodities.
The former Highlanders and Caps United winger said the move will reduce locals’ disposable income.
“The suspension of import duties will increase overseas purchase of basic commodities in turn reducing domestic production of such goods. This has a multiplier effect on employment as some of the local companies will close & thus reducing people’s disposable income,” said the now businessman.
Government recently suspended duty on a cluster of basic commodities including salt in a desperate measure to flood the market with cheaper imports to counter the surge in prices of basic commodities produced locally.
Among the goods now being imported duty free are petroleum jelly, toothpaste, bath soap, laundry bar and washing powder.
The move has also been condemned by Buy Zimbabwe, a lobby group that campaigns for the consumption of local goods.
