Several Bulawayo flea market traders claim that their operations may shut down due to unfair rivalry from unauthorized sellers peddling used clothing.
The flea market sellers claim they face steep rental costs and are compelled to pay taxes, feeling pressured by Zimra which closely monitors them, unlike the unlicensed hawkers who operate without interference.
The spokesperson for Unity Village Flea Market, Siphokuhle Sibanda, appealed to the local authorities to conduct raids on vendors in order to compel them to pay their vending fees, aiming to create a level playing field among all sellers.
"Business has plummeted significantly because of unlawful and unfair competition from untaxed vendors who sell identical products at much lower prices," stated Sibanda.
The condition has deteriorated further because of the continuous Zimra operation targeting our enterprises.
The Bulawayo City Council needs to take action against the unlicensed sellers of second-hand clothing.
Most of the illicit sellers peddling used clothing are active around Fifth Avenue in the city.
Sellers affiliated with the governing Zanu PF party have joined forces under the Vendors 4ED group and dominate part of the informal sector.
The Bulawayo city authorities have been involved in ongoing conflicts with the street vendors attempting to evict them unsuccessfully, as they often resort to using their political influence.
Councillor Josiah Mutangi from ZANU PF supported the vendors who were working alongside Fifth Avenue.
"They pay a monthly rent of $11,50 to the council," Mutangi stated.
The distinction lies in the fact that vendors at flea markets incur higher rental costs and consist of small and medium-sized business owners who manage their operations independently.
He suggested that the flea market operators discuss with the council to lower their rental fees.
Effie Ncube, the commentator, stated that it was essential to initiate discussions among the council, flea market traders, and unauthorized sellers to avoid a potential outbreak of violence.
Mayor David Coltart stated that the council would make sure all vendors working within the city limits were complying with legal requirements.
"We acknowledge that numerous unauthorized sellers operate here, with some not even hailing from Bulawayo," he stated.
We are currently working on developing a new policy and legal structure for SMEs [small and medium enterprises] to address this issue.
Out Of Topic Show Konversi KodeHide Konversi Kode Show EmoticonHide Emoticon