The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife has officially joined the implementation of the Electronic Single Window System (ESWS), a digital platform aimed at streamlining cross-border trade by allowing importers and exporters to submit regulatory documents through a single online portal.
The ESWS initiative aligns with Article 10(4) of the World Trade Organisation’s Trade Facilitation Agreement, which encourages member states to adopt single-window systems to boost efficiency and transparency in international trade.
Speaking to journalists during a media briefing, George Chaumba, Project Manager for the National Ozone Unit under the Climate Change Management Department, said the move will modernise the country’s import and export licensing processes, particularly for ozone-depleting substances regulated under the Montreal Protocol.
“Previously, importers had to physically visit our offices. This system reduces delays, combats illegal trade, and improves data collection on substances that harm the ozone layer and contribute to global warming,” Chaumba said.
The system, which operates 24 hours a day and is free for all users, allows for the online application and processing of permits. It will specifically cover licensing for refrigerants, commonly used gases in refrigeration and air conditioning, as well as appliances that contain such substances, including water coolers, ice machines, and refrigerated trucks.
“We don’t produce these substances locally, so we rely entirely on imports. This system allows us to track both the chemicals and the appliances that use them, which is crucial for reporting to the Ozone Secretariat,” Chaumba added.
The platform is also expected to improve coordination among border agencies, reduce congestion at ports of entry, and help curb smuggling and fraudulent trade practices.
Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) Customs Officer Tayana Chidzvondo, a member of the ESWS implementation team, said the project is part of broader efforts to digitise government services.
“The platform brings together all government departments involved in import and export procedures, from licensing to final customs clearance. This improves transparency and efficiency,” Chidzvondo said.
He confirmed that some departments are already using the system. These include the Port Health Authority under the Ministry of Health and Child Care, which handles documentation for the repatriation of human remains, and the Radiation Authority of Zimbabwe.
Exporters applying for certificates of origin to access preferential trade rates are also using the platform.
“We are now at the verge of onboarding the National Ozone Unit, which regulates ozone-depleting substances, into the system,” said Chidzvondo.
Zimbabwe follows the lead of several African countries, Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, Uganda, and Rwanda, which have successfully implemented similar systems.
The ESWS is accessible to all registered traders and members of the public involved in cross-border trade. However, access may be restricted in cases of prior violations or when usage thresholds are exceeded.
For more information, users can contact the team at singlewindowfunctionaltean@zimra.co.zw.