Uganda: URA Recognises Compliant Taxpayers Ten companies yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to be accorded preferential treatment when clearing their goods at customs. Under the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) scheme, the companies which comply with all tax obligations - will now enjoy fast clearance of their goods through simplified procedures and reduced inspection. They are Toyota Uganda, Unifreight Cargo, DHL Courier, BATU, Roofings Uganda Ltd, Jesa Farm Dairy, Steel and Tube Industries Ltd, Uganda Batteries Ltd, and Ballore Africa Logistics Ltd. AEO is a regional trade facilitation programme recommended by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to ease trade and customs clearance for tax-compliant importers and exporters. The URA assistant Commissioner for Customs, Richard Kamajugo, said the system would facilitate trade without compromising controls. "At first, we thought the more we controlled, the more we got the money but we were wrong. Actually, the more we eased [controls], the more money we got," Kamajugo said. To be accredited with an AEO, a company applies to URA and is subjected to rigorous checks - audits of its income returns and tax returns. "We want to have that confidence in you that even when we do not follow you, you will meet your tax obligations," said Kamajugo. The company gains some leverage in time saved owing to delays in clearing goods at customs; which are a major impediment to smooth trading within the region. To be eligible, Kamajugo said, one should be involved in international trade, have a good compliance history, be financially sound, install and use customs automated systems like e-tax and should implement the AEO compliance programme.
Posted on: Sat, 07 Sep 2013 03:37:12 +0000
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