'Suitcase agents' force down rates

Clearing agents whose offices
consist of little more than a
laptop and data card are forcing
down rates and at the same time
harming the image of the sector,
according to the larger companies in
the Zimbabwean industry.
According to the Zimbabwe
Revenue Authority (Zimra), clearing
agents and any staff need to meet a
number of financial requirements
which prove that the company and
its management are solvent and
in good standing with the revenue
authorities.
The list of preconditions does not,
however, include qualifications –
formal or otherwise.
Once an application has been
approved, the agent needs to lodge a
bond of US$15 000.
Where the clearing agent intends
to engage in removal in bond or
transit, the minimum bond limit is
US$250 000.00.
A licence then costs US$100.