The East African Community (EAC) has called on its Partner States to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies and integrated systems to enhance revenue collection and streamline cross-border trade. EAC Secretary General Stephen Mbundi emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in creating a taxpayer-friendly environment, reducing bureaucracy, and improving revenue administration. This was during a meeting with a delegation from the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) at the EAC headquarters in Arusha.
Ambassador Mbundi highlighted that digital systems can simplify tax processes, reduce bureaucratic procedures, and improve access to timely information for taxpayers. He encouraged Partner States to strengthen the exchange of tax information to facilitate compliance, particularly for businesses engaged in cross-border trade. The EAC is promoting the use of technology, information sharing, and system integration to boost revenue collection.
CATA President Dr. Abu Tariq Jamaluddin commended the EAC for its efforts to implement digital systems aimed at simplifying tax processes and improving taxpayer services. He noted that tax administrations must adopt technology and innovation to enhance revenue collection and taxpayer services. The CATA delegation was impressed by innovations in East Africa, particularly in digital systems.
Dr. Jamaluddin stressed the importance of cooperation and knowledge-sharing among tax administrations to drive innovation and improve tax administration efficiency. He commended Tanzania, through the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), for developing taxpayer-friendly systems and creating an environment that facilitates tax compliance.
TRA Commissioner General Yusuph Juma Mwenda stated that the visit provided an opportunity for tax commissioners to exchange experiences on using technology, innovation, and improving revenue collection systems. The delegation was briefed on the implementation of the EAC Single Customs Territory, which aims to streamline the movement of goods and improve cross-border trade efficiency.
The visit enabled tax commissioners to learn from the EAC's experience in using technology, sharing information, and strengthening customs systems. Such measures contribute to improving revenue collection efficiency while facilitating trade across the region. Discussions during the CATA meeting will provide lessons to help improve tax services and revenue administration in Tanzania.
The TRA will continue to draw on knowledge and experience gained through its participation in CATA to improve taxpayer services, simplify tax compliance, and strengthen domestic revenue collection. The visit was part of the 46th CATA conference held in Arusha from October 5 to 9, bringing together tax commissioners and officials to exchange experiences on revenue administration and institutional reforms.
Key points
- The EAC urges Partner States to adopt digital technologies to boost revenue collection and simplify cross-border trade.
- Digital systems can simplify tax processes, reduce bureaucracy, and improve taxpayer services.
- Cooperation and knowledge-sharing among tax administrations are crucial for driving innovation and improving tax administration efficiency.
