Business Correspondent
HARARE, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has clarified that vehicles manufactured before 1931 can now enter Zimbabwe without import licenses, despite a nationwide ban on cars older than 10 years – a move met with disbelief and satire online.
Key Exemption Details
In a 14 August 2025 statement, ZIMRA cited Statutory Instrument 45 of 2025:
“Vehicles classified as ‘vintage’… are exempted from import permits. A vintage vehicle is any manufactured before 01 January 1931 or composed mainly of pre-1931 materials.”
The tax authority emphasized this promotes “cultural diplomacy” and eases cross-border movement for collectors.
Social Media Erupts
Zimbabweans reacted with shock and humor to the 94-year threshold:
· @TTMambeu: “They are mad! A 1980 car is 45 years old – that’s vintage! 1931 is ridiculous.”
· @Emnny3: “Even Mugabe wasn’t born in 1931!”
· @TalentVga: “Now we need Ford T-mobiles with bicycle wheels!”
· @skmoyo1: “Such a narrow definition. Is this for someone’s personal benefit?”
Calls for Reform
Many demanded broader criteria:
@dave_ndlovu: “At least make it 1965! 1931 is absurd.”
@RukaaChivende: “Clearly, someone high-up owns a 1931 car.”
ZIMRA reiterated the notice was “for awareness only” and disclaimed liability for its use.
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Source: ZIMRA Statement (14/08/25).