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Small Enterprises or Medium Enterprises Laws in Zimbabwe

The growth of micro-enterprises, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and micro, small enterprises and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Zimbabwe is unprecedented. One can argue that SMEs and MSMEs are a pillar of the Zimbabwean economy and it is for this reason that the Government of Zimbabwe, like other developing nations, has since the attainment of independence in 1980 recognized the importance MSMEs. 

The Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises is mandated with the development and promotion of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and MSMEs in the country and has to date done a good job in promoting business linkages between MSMEs and large corporate bodies as well as MSMEs to MSMEs. 

The Government established Zimbabwe’s National, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Policy for 2020 – 2024. The City of Harare on 02 May 2023 after a Full Council Meeting adopted the City of Harare Small and Medium Enterprises Policy 2023.

The Government through the Small and Medium Enterprises Act [Chapter 24:12] statutorily enacted what can be regarded as small enterprises or medium enterprise law in Zimbabwe which seeks to promote and develop micro, small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe, whether operating in the formal or informal sector of the national economy. Through the promulgation of the Small and Medium Enterprises Act [Chapter 24:12] the Government of Zimbabwe also established the following:

• Mirco, Small and Medium Enterprises Advisory Council (MSME Advisory Council); and 

• Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO).

It is important for SMEs and MSMEs to have a basic understanding of the laws regulating small enterprises or medium enterprises in Zimbabwe. One of the ways to do this is setting up a consultation with an SME law firm in Zimbabwe.