Finance minister directs taxman to reshuffle TPA customs staff
What you need to know:
- The directive, which was issued on Friday September 22 during his impromptu visit to the customs centre, comes after the government established that some officials were responsible for the loss of revenue.
Dar es Salaam. The Finance and Planning Minister, Dr Philip Mpango, has given a-seven day ultimatum to Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) to reshuffle public servants working at the Dar es Salaam Port’s customs centre.
The directive, which was issued on Friday September 22 during his impromptu visit to the customs centre, comes after the government established that some officials were responsible for the loss of revenue.
Those to be affected by the move, according to Dr Mpango, are from the cargo measurements and inspection department.
“I give you a week to implement the directive, including relocation of long-serving servants in the measurements and inspection department to increase efficiency in revenue collection,” noted Dr Mpango.
“We are yet to start enjoying the fruits of the fifth regime’s efforts of improving Dar es Salaam Port’s efficiency…it doesn’t click into mind to see revenue collection remaining the same.”
He said the government would have zero tolerance to unscrupulous officials, who were cooperating with tax evaders.
“Despite the presence of scanners, undervaluation of imports to evade tax is still there…this is unacceptable,” he stressed.
He directed security organs to investigate the matter and take action against the culprits.
