Edgars Stores Limited Chief Executive Officer Sevious Mushosho,
Local textiles and clothing industry stakeholders have lauded the government for the enactment of the SI 59 of 2026 which restricts the importation of second-hand clothes.
The statutory instrument tightens the import of second-hand clothes to protect the local textile industry.
Edgars Stores Limited Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sevious Mushosho, expressed gratitude to the government of Zimbabwe for protecting the local clothing players from unfair foreign competition.
“The decision made by the government to regulate the importation of used clothing will not only benefit the local clothing industry, but also the economy as a whole. This move will promote the growth and development of our own local textile and clothing manufacturing industry through the creation of conducive operational conditions,” said Mr. Mushosho.
The Edgars boss also cited the number of health related dangers that comes from the importation of second-hand clothes.
“The SI 59 of 2026 will push the local industry stakeholders to improve the clothing quality. Second hand clothes are often of lower quality and can be harmful to the health of the local population due to the unknown origin of the garments,” added Mr. Mushosho.
Zimbabwe Textiles Manufacturers Association Chairman Mr. Admire Masenda threw his weight behind SI 59 of 2026, saying it brings massive benefits to the people of Zimbabwe.
“Banning the importation of second-hand clothing presents a strategic opportunity to revive the clothing industry sector which will in turn create jobs for the locals and drive industrialisation,” said Mr Masenda.
Furthermore, he highlighted that Zimbabweans should take pride in wearing local brands.
“Zimbabweans should always remember that western countries would never accept the importation of second-hand clothing from Africa, as Africans we should take pride in wearing our local brands,” he said.
The clothing industry players say they are committed to supporting the government’s decision and are ready to work hard to ensure its success. Buy Zimbabwe is confident that the SI 59 of 2026 will lead to a more sustainable and thriving clothing industry in our country.
To promote local brands and advance buying local, Buy Zimbabwe is organizing the prestigious Zimbrands Awards on the 22nd of May in Harare.