High Court Dismisses Grain Millers' Bid to Block Import Levies

Zimbabwe's High Court has rejected an urgent bid by the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) to halt the government's new grain import levy framework. Justice Lucy Mungwari declared the case lacked urgency, effectively allowing the levies to be implemented.

The government introduced the levies under Statutory Instrument 87 of 2025, asserting they are crucial for protecting domestic farmers, funding irrigation development, and decreasing Zimbabwe's reliance on grain imports. The respondents in the case included several key government bodies such as the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA), the Ministries of Agriculture, Finance, Justice, and Industry and Commerce, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), and the Attorney General.

GMAZ had sought to nullify the Statutory Instrument, arguing the levy framework was unconstitutional, unlawful, and would significantly increase the prices of basic food commodities. Tafadzwa Musarara, GMAZ national chairman, stated in an affidavit that the association represents over 100 milling and stockfeed businesses. GMAZ contended that the levies were "ultra vires multiple provisions of the constitution" and "grossly unreasonable."

The regulations impose levies on imported grain and oilseed products, with wheat imports facing charges up to US$89.25 per metric tonne. GMAZ warned these additional costs would inevitably raise staple food prices, impacting affordability for consumers.

However, the government maintains the levies are essential for supporting local agriculture and bolstering food security. Correspondence from the Ministry of Finance, including a letter from Finance Secretary George Guvamatanga dated April 30, 2025, affirmed Treasury's support. Guvamatanga argued that pricing disparities between imported and local grain negatively affect producer viability, import substitution, and macroeconomic stability. The AMA has been designated as the collecting agent for these levies, with revenues intended for farmer payments and smallholder irrigation development.

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The matter is not urgent.