ZRA SMOKES OUT MORE CIGARETTES

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has thwarted another cigarette smuggling scheme involving 800 cases worth K10 million in taxes.

ZRA has an ongoing and focused operation aimed at completely eliminating cigarette smuggling among other goods.

During an operation, the Authority intercepted a rigid truck bearing registration number MJ24HCGP, carrying a consignment of household goods and 800 boxes of Viking cigarettes, declared as transit cargo destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

An inspection of the truck established that the Viking cigarettes were affixed with ZRA stamps proving that the consignment was meant for the Zambian market.

Illicit trade not only causes unfair competition to legally trading persons in the market but also poses potential health hazards and is harmful to the economy as there is loss of government revenue through tax evasion.

ZRA continues to implement strategic measures geared towards combatting illicit trade especially excisable goods so as to protect legitimate traders and government revenue.

We appeal to members of the public to join hands with ZRA and the government in fighting this vice through provision of crucial information on and around persons or businesses involved in smuggling.

Any information provided will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.

Issued by

Oliver Nzala

ZRA Corporate Communications Manager