"TRA Faces Ongoing Smuggling Threat in Shinyanga Region"

Smuggling Continues to Challenge TRA in Shinyanga Region

March 1, 2025

The regional government of Shinyanga has acknowledged the persistent issue of smuggled goods crossing from neighboring countries, posing a significant threat to local industries and national revenue. This illicit trade, conducted through unregulated routes, undermines both the economy and the development of domestic manufacturing.

During the award ceremony for top taxpayers of 2023/2024 in Kahama, Shinyanga, the Regional Commissioner, Anamringi Macha, confirmed the ongoing challenges presented by this illegal trade. The event, which also recognized the Kahama tax district, marked the government's continued efforts to combat smuggling.

“We share a border with neighboring countries, and goods are being brought into the region without the payment of duties,” Macha said. “This is a criminal activity, and we urge authorities, in collaboration with TRA, to address it seriously.”

This illicit trade not only deprives the government of vital tax revenue but also compromises public health, as some of the products entering the country may not meet safety standards. Emmanuel Nnko, representing the Commissioner General of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Yusuph Mwenda, emphasized the health risks posed by smuggled goods. He also highlighted that the TRA had successfully exceeded its tax collection targets despite the challenges.

“For the fiscal year 2023/24, we collected Sh34.15 billion, surpassing our target of Sh25.78 billion by over 132%,” said Nnko. "From July 2024 to January 2025, the region collected Sh36.78 billion, achieving 114% of the planned target of Sh32.25 billion."

Despite the hurdles posed by smuggling, the region's high tax revenue collection was attributed to the support of patriotic taxpayers who have rallied behind government efforts to enhance national development.

Abdulrahman Mohamed, a local taxpayer, expressed his gratitude for the government’s commitment to improving the business environment, making it easier for traders to meet their tax obligations.