Zimbabwe's fiscalization journey began in 2010 and initially applied only to VAT-registered retailers. This framework has since developed into the current Fiscal Device Management System (FDMS), launched in 2023, as part of the country's ongoing tax digitalization efforts. Since September 2023, all invoices must include QR codes, following Public notice 50/2023.
To modernize its VAT system, Zimbabwe's Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has enhanced its VAT returns management through the Tax and Revenue Management System (TaRMS). The new features will be available for tax periods starting June 1, 2025, and include:
- Automated tax data exchange between TaRMS and the Fiscalization Data Management System (FDMS),
- Automatic input tax schedule generation, and;
- Automatic management of credit and debit notes.
As outlined in Public Notice 30 of 2025, published on May 15, 2025, starting June 1, 2025, it is mandatory to submit buyer details on fiscal tax invoices, debit, and credit notes to FDMS. Required details include the buyer's name, address, contact information, taxpayer identification number (TIN), and VAT registration number, where applicable.
All VAT-registered operators and taxpayers, including those below the VAT registration threshold of 25,000 USD (approx. 21,900 EUR), must comply with fiscalization regulations and the integration of TaRMS and FDMS by the deadline of May 31, 2025.
Tax invoices, debit, and credit notes are supported by FDMS, facilitating invoice validation and confirmation. The VAT input tax schedule is generated automatically by the system. Received invoices can be validated on the ZIMRA-FDMS web portal using the invoice’s verification number or QR code.
To comply, taxpayers can select methods based on their business needs, such as mobile POS applications, electronic cash registers, or APIs compatible with FDMS for data recording and submission to ZIMRA's servers. Taxpayers must ensure their selected method is upgraded and complies with Public Notice 30. Hardware fiscal devices can be acquired from approved suppliers, while virtual solutions may be developed in-house or through third parties.
