On November 3, 2025, the Zimbabwean government announced the removal of eleven licence requirements and the consolidation of fragmented local permits into a single licence under the “Ease of Doing Business” reforms. Finance Minister Prof. Mthuli Ncube stated the move aims to simplify regulation for SMEs and formal businesses, cut costs (previously up to USD 2,300 for a food factory licence), and foster retail and wholesale growth. New licences are capped at USD 500, with additional reductions for hotel, property use, and waste management fees, enhancing Zimbabwe’s investment climate and business competitiveness.
