The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has intensified collaboration with Customs Agents and Tax Consultants as part of a broader strategy to expand the tax base, enhance voluntary compliance, and eliminate practices that undermine national revenue collection.
The commitment was reinforced on December 12, 2025, when Commissioner General Yusuph Juma Mwenda met with tax professionals in Dar es Salaam to discuss shared responsibilities and the role of intermediaries in shaping a compliant tax environment.
Mr. Mwenda emphasized that the success of national revenue mobilization efforts depends heavily on the conduct and commitment of those who interact directly with taxpayers. He said tax professionals remain a critical bridge between TRA and the business community.
“You are key partners in building a compliant tax system. Your guidance influences whether taxpayers meet their obligations or engage in practices that put them on the wrong side of the law,” he told the participants.
He noted that tax evasion through smuggling, failure to issue sales receipts, and falsified declarations continues to threaten fair competition and reduces trust in the tax system.
He challenged intermediaries to support national efforts by reporting non-compliance and promoting a culture of honesty.
Mr. Mwenda added that TRA is reinforcing enforcement measures and modernizing systems to ensure efficiency and fairness in tax administration, while also protecting compliant taxpayers from unfair competition.
The President of the Tanzania Freight Forwarders Association (TAFFA), Edward Urio, echoed the Commissioner General’s message, stressing that building a responsible tax culture requires cooperation between institutions and the private sector.
He lauded the improvements in the TANCIS system, which he said have made customs procedures more transparent and streamlined, allowing freight agents to clear goods faster and with fewer bottlenecks.
“This level of efficiency supports both government revenue efforts and business operations,” Mr. Urio noted.
Representing Tax Consultants, Victoria Soka said professionals in the field are committed to reinforcing compliance among their clients by offering accurate guidance and ensuring that taxpayers understand their obligations.
Ms. Soka further highlighted their initiative to promote tax awareness among primary school pupils, saying early education sets the foundation for a generation that appreciates the role of taxes in national development.
“This is long-term investment in shaping responsible future citizens,” she said.
The meeting marks TRA’s continued efforts to strengthen its partnership with private-sector players at a time when the government is prioritizing domestic revenue growth, improved service delivery, and transparent tax administration.