Voluntary disclosure in respect of smuggled goods

IT IS now less than four (4) months before the end of the Voluntary Disclosure Programme that has been running since July 2018. The facility has received significant response with regards to offences committed unwittingly by many importers. There has been, however, minimum disclosure of goods imported knowingly without observing due process.

Use of undesignated entry

points

It is a fact that our border lines are not barricaded. Other than the natural barriers such as rivers and mountains, the larger part of the border line is prone to abuse. Some importers have taken advantage of the absence of the physical barriers to smuggle goods into the country. While the act is strongly discouraged for its criminality, any persons who have used this system to smuggle goods are encouraged to voluntarily disclose. When they disclose the importations ZIMRA will not take them to task but simply collect the duty that would have been paid had they used the legal ports of entry, and the interest, calculated at 10% per annum. Remember, no penalties will be levied under the Voluntary DisclosureProgramme. Smuggling of goods through

border posts

Cases of smuggling through the border posts are also common, and smugglers have managed to undermine the border management system with or without the involvement of office bearers. Importers who might have managed to evade payment of duty under any circumstances,are encouraged to voluntarily disclose such activities. The requirement to pay the duties on any smuggled goods is still standing.

Beyond the Voluntary Disclosure Programme

It is important to note that at the end of the Voluntary Disclosure Programme on 31 December 2018, any detections made by ZIMRA in respect of fraudulent importations will be subjected to penalties and/ or prosecution of the offenders. Importers are therefore encouraged to utilise this facility fully before it comes to an end.

For more information, please approach your nearest ZIMRA office.

◆ Disclaimer

This article was compiled by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority for information purposes only. ZIMRA shall not accept responsibility for loss or damage arising from use of material in this article and no liability will attach to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority.

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