The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has pledged to continue intensifying its crackdown on tax evasion in order to protect compliant taxpayers and ensure fair competition in the business sector.
The Commissioner General of the Tanzania Revenue Authority, Yusuph Juma Mwenda, made the remarks on April 15, 2026, while speaking to taxpayers in Mara Region.
Mwenda said tax evasion remains a serious challenge that undermines government revenue and creates unfair competition, noting that honest taxpayers continue to suffer when others avoid their legal obligations.
He warned that TRA will continue tracking down tax evaders across the country and take firm legal action against them.
“We will pursue tax evaders wherever they are. You cannot evade taxes forever. One day, we will catch you,” Mwenda said, adding that members of the public should also report suspected tax evasion cases to help strengthen enforcement.
He further issued a warning to traders involved in smuggling goods through border points, including the Sirari Border, saying TRA has strengthened surveillance and enforcement measures to curb illegal trade.
Mwenda said smuggling denies the government revenue and undermines fair business practices, adding that all traders must operate within the law to ensure a level playing field.
At the same time, he emphasized that TRA will continue to strengthen its relationship with taxpayers by engaging them regularly, listening to their concerns, and resolving challenges affecting business operations.
He said the goal is to improve tax administration, enhance transparency, and support economic growth by creating a more friendly environment for taxpayers.
Mwenda also noted that TRA is working to expand the tax base by registering more taxpayers across the country.
He pointed out that Tanzania has a labour force of more than 30 million people, while only about eight million are currently registered taxpayers, describing this as a major gap that must be addressed.
The Commissioner for Domestic Revenue, Michael Muhoja, said TRA will continue to strengthen taxpayer education programmes to help citizens better understand their tax obligations and the importance of contributing to national development.
He said increased awareness is key to improving voluntary compliance and reducing tax evasion.
Some taxpayers who attended the meeting praised TRA for maintaining close engagement with stakeholders and for providing regular tax education, saying it has improved understanding and strengthened cooperation between businesses and the authority.
