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Zimbabwe: Informal Sector Accounts for 76% of the Economy

By SG Editor·
Ghanaian market scene with vendors and shoppers amid new mining reforms.

Market vendors and shoppers in Ghana adapting to new mining regulations and economic reforms.

Zimbabwe’s first economic census has revealed that 76% of the country’s economic activity happens in the informal sector, highlighting a major challenge for tax collection. The informal boom stems from years of economic instability, including currency collapse and hyperinflation. Wholesale and retail trade dominate this informal economy, followed by manufacturing. However, while the informal sector provides vital livelihoods amid declining formal employment, it contributes little to government revenue. Authorities now face the tough task of broadening the tax base without stifling livelihoods. Meanwhile, industry leaders warn that the shrinking pool of formal businesses is overburdened by taxes and regulations, making profitability increasingly difficult.

Bloomberg

Zimbabwe: Informal Sector Accounts for 76% of the Economy | africa.com