PRESS STATEMENT -ADDRESS SMART INVOICING CHALLENGES URGENTLY

9th July 2024

PRESS STATEMENT

ADDRESS SMART INVOICING CHALLENGES URGENTLY

We urge the government through the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) to urgently engage the business community on the challenges faced with the Smart Invoicing System.

While the Smart Invoicing system introduced by ZRA was welcomed as a progressive step to digitalises and seal significant tax leakages among small and large businesses in Zambia it has brought challenges that need urgent redress. 

In the current economic situation, there has been a general feeling among small to medium sized enterprises that the Smart Invoicing system is expensive and increases the heavy burden of licences, fees, and taxes.

ActionAid is also concerned that electricity load shedding management and the high cost of doing business has equally impacted Small and Medium Entrepreneurs’ (SMEs) ability to actively use the Smart Invoicing system. The system must be responsive to these challenges. 

While recognising that these changes are costly and will take time, there is need for a phased approach to allow for adoption of new software and technology, improved access to electricity, and increased capacity among local SMEs. 

ActionAid reiterates its call for fair and progressive tax measures in the nation as we quest for increased domestic resource mobilisation. We should how even not ignore the challenges immediate observed.

ActionAid supports the effective collection of taxes and ensuring the prudent utilisation of resources to end poverty.

SIGNED

Faides TembaTemba 

COUNTRY DIRECTOR-ACTIONAID ZAMBIA