ZRA warns erring clearing agents

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 10:34:11 +0000

CLEARING agents involved in facilitating smuggling and preparation of forged documents will have their licences revoked, says Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) commissioner general Kingsley Chanda.

Mr Chanda said apart from that directors and shareholders of the culprit clearing companies would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the provisions of the law.

And ZRA has with immediate effect resolved that all cases of smuggling would be determined through complete seizure of goods and the vessels such as trucks, cars, and motor bikes.

According to a statement issued to the Daily Nation by ZRA corporate communications manager Topsy Sikalinda, both the goods and the vessels would be forfeited to the State without compensation after the statutory period.

The Authority has further warned that clearing agencies that would be found wanting would have their directors and shareholders blacklisted from doing any customs clearing business in Zambia.

“The Authority will also ensure that all directors and shareholders of such clearing companies are screened before customs approve or renew any clearing licences,” Mr Sikalinda said.

The Authority has since advised all those involved in chain businesss of importing and exporting goods to take full responsibility and ensure that their business partners were genuine and doing the right thing.

“This measure is with effect from 31st March, 2017,” Mr Sikalinda said.