Zimbabwe is being flooded with cheap imports, mainly from China. Imports of low-priced Chinese goods have had a negative impact on the viability and growth of local clothing industry in Zimbabwe. So, textile Zimbabwean manufacturers want a complete ban on polyester knitted fabric and finished blankets entering the country. They want tariff codes that carry 10 per cent duty to be aligned with the tariffs codes that carry duty of 40 per cent. They want a level playing field with a customs duty regime which forces the imported product to be in the same price range as the local product. They want the competition to be based on quality, reliability and delivery.

Small traders want support from the government so that they can grow their businesses. Cheaper imports have made local products uncompetitive. Many textile companies are on the verge of closure as most people now prefer to import rather than to support the local industry. China gives 14 to 20 per cent export incentives. So Chinese manufacturers are able to produce goods at cost or slightly above and still retain profitability.

The textile and clothing industry in Zimbabwe was in the past considered the biggest employer after agriculture.