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Sikhulekelani Moyo, Business Reporter
THE 2021 Manufacturing Sector Survey results are set to be released next month and would indicate the key milestones achieved this year and challenges encountered.

The survey is a flagship study by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI), which offers critical insight into the state of the country’s manufacturing sector and guides key policy interventions.

CZI chief executive officer, Ms Sekai Kuvarika, said: “The manufacturing sector survey report is released every January as we prepare to start the new year.

She would not be drawn to reveal elements of the study.

However, recent estimates indicate the sector is expected to close the year at 61 percent capacity utilisation, which is a significant improvement from last’ year’s 47 percent and 36 percent in 2019.

It is hoped the study will give a glimpse into the impact of Covid-19 on the sector and suggestions for mitigating the adverse effects so as to ensure viability.

In the past the survey has covered sectors such as foodstuffs, beverages, tobacco, clothing, footwear, furniture, paper (printing), chemicals, non-metallic minerals, transport and equipment.

The survey normally measures capacity utilisation, which determine company and country’s industrial performance.
In 2020 the survey showed that industries spent a lot of money trying to contain Covid-19 and some operations were disrupted as companies sought to adhere to Covid-19 lockdown regulations.

Industry leaders raised concern over inflationary pressures and shortage of foreign currency.

The CZI has credited the establishment of forex auction system for reducing forex shortages. – @SikhulekelaniM1.