ZRA EXPLAINS NEW RULE ON TRANSIT VEHICLES
By BUUMBA CHIMBULU
THE measure to convey all motor vehicles and goods transiting through the country is meant to improve revenue collection in the region as seal smuggling loopholes not only for Zambia but neighbouring countries too.
This is also aimed at improving trade facilitation by enhancing the logistics sector through the reduction of risks related to transit vehicles, according to the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) Corporate Communications Manager, Mr Topsy Sikalinda.
According to ZRA, all motor vehicles (excluding trucks, tankers and heavy-duty vehicles) transiting through Zambia as cargo by road, will be required to be transported using a carrier specifically designed to carry such vehicles effective January 1, 2022.
Mr Sikalinda however explained that the requirement to move motor vehicles in transit on carriers is in line with the Customs and Excise (Goods in Transit) Rules, 2021, which were contained in the Gazette Notice No. 124 of 2021.
“The measure will protect the customs bonds for clearing agents whose business operations get disrupted due to outstanding transit transactions on the customs system that are reported that the vehicles do not exit the country,” he said in a statement.
He explained that this measure did not affect local imports of vehicles.
He stressed that Zambia’s imports would continue being driven by road and the drivers at the borders would continue generating income on importations into the country and other new opportunities that would be created by this measure. “This measure is not being implemented in isolation but in consultation with all key partners/ revenue authorities in the region.
“The ZRA further wishes to encourage Zambian entrepreneurs to take advantage of the various business opportunities that this measure creates for the local economy,” Mr Sikalinda said.
He urged all stakeholders under this category to familiarise themselves with this requirement before January 1, 2022 and ensure compliance.
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