The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) is the government agency responsible for collecting and managing excise revenue in Tanzania. Established in 1995, it has been instrumental in increasing the country’s tax income and ensuring compliance with tariff laws. With a focus on transparency and efficiency, the TRA has implemented various measures to simplify tariff processes for individuals and businesses.
In addition to its core mandate of tariff collection, the unit also plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth and development in Tanzania. By ensuring that excise income is collected and managed efficiently, the TRA helps to fund essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
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Essential acts and laws of TRA
The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has implemented several acts and laws that have significantly impacted the country’s profits collection. These acts are mentioned as follows.
The Tax Administration Act of 2015
It has streamlined the tariff administration process, making it more efficient and effective. This act has enabled TRA to improve taxpayer services, enhance compliance, and reduce the cost of excise administration.
The Electronic Fiscal Devices (EFD) Regulations of 2010
This law has been critical in enhancing tariff compliance and reducing excise evasion. The use of EFDs has enabled the unit to monitor transactions in real time, thus reducing the likelihood of levy fraud.
The Excise Management and Tariff Act of 2015
This has been instrumental in regulating the production, importation, and distribution of excisable goods. This act has enabled TRA to collect more revenue from excisable goods while also protecting public health and safety.
The Income Tax Act of 2004
This law has been critical in enhancing levy compliance among individuals and businesses. This act has enabled TRA to expand the levy base, reduce tariff evasion, and increase returns collection.
The Value Added Tax Act of 2014
It has been instrumental in enhancing levy compliance and revenue collection. This act has enabled TRA to simplify the VAT system, reduce the cost of compliance, and increase revenue collection.
The alliance between TRA and businesses
The Tanzania Revenue Authority has recently announced several businesses that are cooperating with them. These businesses are taking part in a program to ensure that they are paying their taxes correctly and on time. The program is designed to help businesses understand their levy obligations and to make sure that they are meeting them.
The alliance between TRA and individuals
Individuals cooperating with the Tanzania Revenue Authority are those who have recognized the importance of paying taxes and contributing to the growth of the country’s economy. These individuals include business owners, self-employed individuals, and employed individuals who have a taxable income. By cooperating with the Tanzania Revenue Authority, these individuals are fulfilling their civic duty and helping to support the government’s efforts to provide essential services and infrastructure.
Services provided by the division
Taxpayers can choose from a variety of services provided by the Tanzania Revenue Authority. The following are the services that the authority provides:
Taxpayer registration
The authority offers a simple and straightforward process for taxpayers to register their businesses and obtain their Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TINs).
Tax returns filing
The administration provides an online platform for taxpayers to file their levy returns. This platform is user-friendly and makes the process of filing levy returns hassle-free.
Tax payment
It offers various payment options, including mobile money, bank transfers, and payment at designated banks.
Tax education
The unit provides educational materials to taxpayers to help them understand their levy obligations and how to comply with tariff laws.
Tax audit
It conducts tariff audits to ensure that taxpayers are complying with levy laws and regulations.
Tax dispute resolution
The authority has a dispute resolution mechanism that allows taxpayers to resolve any tariff-related disputes.
Tax exemptions and incentives
It offers tariff exemptions and incentives to encourage investment and promote economic growth.
Customs services
The unit provides customs services, including clearance of goods, inspection, and valuation.
Excise duty services
The agency administers excise duty on selected goods, including alcohol, tobacco, and petroleum products.
Levy data management
The authority maintains a database of taxpayers and their excise records to ensure efficient tariff administration.
