ZAMBIA LOSING $100M IN ILLEGAL ALCOHOL SALE
ZAMBIA is losing more than US$100 million in unpaid annual taxes and duties through counterfeit and smuggled alcohol, the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) has said.
Dr Haabazoka said Government should curb smuggling of alcohol because it was robing the country of the much-needed revenue
“We cannot be losing over US$100 million just through illegal brewing and selling of counterfeit and smuggled alcohol. Not only does government lose revenue but it also loses healthy citizens who can contribute to national socio-economic development,” he said.
He was speaking after touring Zambian Breweries’ Mungwi Plant in Lusaka yesterday.
Dr Haabazoka said EAZ was impressed with the commitment shown by the brewing company to create a vibrant economy through aligning with the Seventh National Development Plan and Vision 2030 goals
“As an association we will tighten up and enhance awareness of the illegal trade and production of alcohol so that it is curtailed by the relevant bodies,” he said.
EAZ and Zambian Breweries, he said, would work together to bring awareness on the dangers of drinking and trading of smuggled, illicit alcohol.
Zambian Breweries Country Director Jose Moran thanked EAZ for being one of the associations spearheading a vibrant economy by drawing attention to issues and challenges effecting the country.
“Zambian Breweries is a big tax payer and we are here to create wealth for all Zambians, and I believe we are here to stay for a hundred years more,” he said
“We are very hopeful that our relationship with EAZ will help foster a vibrant economy through tackling challenges involving the beer industry, such as illicit alcohol and policies,” he said.
A study conducted in 2017 indicated that about 69 percent of the alcohol on the market was smuggled or illegally produced, denying the government its share in taxes.