Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi addressed the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) conference in Arusha, Tanzania, on October 6, 2026. He stressed that modern technology systems are crucial for improved tax collection, transparency, and administration. Ndejembi highlighted the importance of technology in increasing domestic revenue and enhancing services to taxpayers. The conference focused on the role of technology in tax administration, reflecting its growing significance in revenue collection systems.
Ndejembi emphasized that while technology is essential, it is not the sole factor in successful revenue collection. Sound policies, robust and clear laws, and efficient tax administration that responds to taxpayers' needs are also vital. He noted the importance of international cooperation on tax matters, given the rise of cross-border trade, multinational companies, and digital transactions. This cooperation facilitates the exchange of tax information and administrative assistance between countries.
Tanzania is strengthening its participation in international tax cooperation, including information exchange and administrative assistance. This cooperation aims to enhance tax certainty, facilitate information exchange, and prevent and resolve tax disputes. Effective coordination among countries can help safeguard government revenues while reducing double taxation and eliminating uncertainty for legitimate investors. Ndejembi stated that a country attracting investment is one with clear and stable tax rules, administered fairly, and supported by sound customs and revenue collection procedures.
CATA President Abu Tariq Jamaluddin noted that modern technology has helped member countries simplify tax administration, creating easier environments for revenue collection and taxpayer compliance. The conference theme seeks to promote greater technology use, and CATA will continue to facilitate its adoption to strengthen tax administration among member countries. The conference enables participating countries to exchange knowledge and experiences on tax administration and technology use.
Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) Commissioner General Yusuph Juma Mwenda, whose authority is hosting the conference, reported significant progress in adopting technology. This progress has improved tax administration services by enhancing transparency and efficiency. The TRA introduced the Integrated Domestic Revenue Administration System (IDRAS), allowing taxpayers to issue electronic receipts using mobile phones without electronic fiscal devices. This system has increased voluntary tax compliance and reduced face-to-face interactions between taxpayers and TRA officials.
The CATA conference brings together member countries to discuss the role of technology in tax administration. The use of technology has become increasingly important in improving revenue collection systems. Ndejembi's address highlighted the need for sound policies and efficient tax administration to complement technology. The conference provides a platform for countries to share experiences and best practices in tax administration and technology adoption.
The adoption of technology in tax administration has yielded positive results in Tanzania. The TRA's introduction of IDRAS has increased voluntary tax compliance and reduced face-to-face interactions. The conference will continue to facilitate the adoption of technology in tax collection to strengthen tax administration among member countries. This will enable countries to improve revenue collection, enhance transparency, and provide better services to taxpayers.
Key points
- The use of modern technology systems is crucial for improved tax collection, transparency, and administration.
- International cooperation on tax matters is essential for enhancing tax certainty and preventing tax disputes.
- The adoption of technology in tax administration has increased voluntary tax compliance and reduced face-to-face interactions in Tanzania.
