The ManicaPost
Luthando Mapepa
Chipinge Correspondent
TOP Chimanimani-based manufacturer, Wattle Company, is set to boost its tannin production following the launch of the Zimbabwe Leather Sector Strategy which runs from 2021 to 2030.
The strategy which was launched early this year is set to see the growth of the leather manufacturing sector.
Tannin is extracted from wattle trees and is used to treat hides and turn them into leather for various uses.
In an interview with The Manica Post Business, Wattle Company operations manager, Mr Shepherd Machona said the revival of the leather sector is key to the manufacturing sector.
He said the new strategy is a game changer that will see Zimbabwe claiming back its lost market share in the region.
“We embrace the Zimbabwe Leather Sector Strategy as it will see the capacity utilisation of our tanneries going up,” said Mr Machona.
He stressed that the private sector has a key role to play in the attainment of Vision 2030.
“We are pleased that the Government is trying its best to create a level playing ground for all players across the manufacturing sector. This is key as we work towards attaining Vision 2030.
“We are also pleading with the Government to consider wavering duty or giving exemptions on some machinery so that we can fully recapitalise our operations,” he said.
The Zimbabwe Leather Sector Strategy is a successor to the Leather Sector Strategy (2012-2017).
It seeks to increase the competitiveness of the country’s leather value chain and enhance access to both local and export markets for the finished products.
