Send a parcel to Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has a challenging climate. Widespread unrest and political disagreements make doing business with this country difficult

Zimbabwe has its roots in British rule, originally established as the Republic of Rhodesia by the United Kingdom. Since 1980, however, this South African nation has been dominated by one man's leadership: Robert Mugabe. Zimbabwe has struggled under this regime, dealing with extreme poverty, inequality and unemployment for the country's 12 million citizens. In addition, the worldwide unpopularity of Mugabe's policies led to sanctions from other nations that have crippled growth. Zimbabwe also shares the plight of other African nations, with a major AIDS epidemic threatening stability. This has led to a decline in life expectancy and a rise in infant mortality. Zimbabwe citizens suffer from some of the worst statistics, with the average life expectancy sitting at a mere 39 years to 42 years. In addition, white residents of Zimbabwe, including the 10,000 of British origin, are finding it increasingly dangerous to live in the area. White farmers often find their land seized without due process by Mugabe's government.

Zimbabwe has distinct prejudices against doing business with western and European countries. It is particularly frustrated with the United States, Britain and other European nations. This is largely because of the sanctions that are imposed upon Zimbabwe due to its unpopular political approach and policies. This makes the nation isolated, though some stabilization is being realized. Still, the nation cannot afford to hoard all its resources and must export products in order to survive. Major industries include minerals, agriculture, mining and tourism. Zimbabwe produces large amounts of diamonds, platinum and tobacco. While these crops have the potential to improve the nation's economy, much of the profits are diverted to corrupt government officials, leaving the citizens fighting for survival. Zimbabwe trades the most heavily with neighbouring South Africa.

Import Restrictions for shipping to Zimbabwe from the UK

Despite the challenging environment that exists between the United Kingdom and Zimbabwe, the country does make it quite clear as to what its import requirements are. The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority publishes a concise list of prohibited and restricted imports. Prohibited items include:

• pornographic material,


• specific types of knives,


• some skin lightening creams,


• counterfeit money,


• products made by prisoners,


• some types of alcohol,


• obscene items,


• and products determined to undermine morality.

Many more items that might be shipped to Zimbabwe are under the restricted category. Restricted shipments include:

• wildlife,


• plant products,


• soil,


• firearms,


• ammunition,


• alcohol stills,


• historic artefacts and monuments,


• money,


• pets,


• medications.


• and hazardous substances.

The major categories of restricted items are also accompanied by a list of the licensing agencies. In addition, Zimbabwe even covers its reasons for making specific imports prohibited and restricted. In most cases, these distinctions are made in order to protect Zimbabwe's interests; restrictions are designed to protect the citizens, the environment and the economy. The full listing from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority can be found here.

Useful Information

Despite the strife between Zimbabwe's government and western and European interests, the United Kingdom remains one of the most generous sources of relief funds for the struggling nation. This may or may not positively impact shippers originating from Britain. However, the significant number of British expatriates does mean that Zimbabwe provides at least basic accommodation for British imports.

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