ZRA BLOCKS SCAM WORTH K264, 000 OF TAXES
A CONSIGNMENT made up of 60 packages of assorted clothing and leather products imported from Turkey has been intercepted by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).
The consignment was worth with a total estimated revenue loss of K264,000.00.
The interception was made after ZRA received intelligence information that a certain importer was evading payment of taxes by misclassifying and changing baggage tags from unaccompanied to accompanied baggage.
ZRA Corporate Communications Manager, Oliver Nzala, said the consignment was made up of assorted clothing, shoes for men, ladies and children, ladies’ handbags, which attracts 25 percent customs duty.
Mr Nzala explained that the consignment came with baggage tags indicating they were accompanied baggage, when not.
“This consignment came into the country through Kenneth Kaunda International Airport
aboard Ethiopian on two different flights.
“The first batch of 36 packages arrived on 27th and the balance of 24 packages on 29th March, 2024 under Airway Bill number 071-51919862,” he said in a statement.
Mr Nzala stated that customs clearance was done through the commercial terminal where they declared the consignment to be Printer parts.
The consignment, he noted, was misclassified to avoid paying taxes due as Printer parts only pay Value Added Tax (VAT) which is claimable.
“The consignment has since been detained and the verification process initiated as provided for in the Customs and Excise Act, CAP 322 of the Laws of Zambia.
“We urge all importers and their appointed agents to desist from facilitating illegal activities because once goods are intercepted, there are far-reaching consequences not only to the owners of the products but also parties involved,” he said.
For agents, Mr Nzala said: “when you notice that you have been given documents different from what has been declared, please report to the ZRA to avoid your licence being revoked.”