Staff Reporter

The 2025 National Budget has introduced a new tax on fast food purchases, reflecting the government’s efforts to diversify its revenue streams.

Announcing the measure yesterday in Parliament, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube said, “The fast-food industry has become a significant player in the economy, and this tax will ensure the sector contributes its fair share to national development.”

The 2025 Zimbabwe National Budget introduces a 0.5% tax on fast foods, targeting items such as pizza, burgers, hot dogs, shawarma, French fries, chicken, doughnuts, tacos, and similar processed foods sold by fast food outlets and restaurants.

The tax is part of measures to promote healthier eating habits and address the prevalence of obesity and related non-communicable diseases.

The tax will be structured to target both high-end and mass-market outlets, with exemptions for basic food items to safeguard low-income consumers.