We are not fans of higher taxes – HH

By BARNABAS ZULU

PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has assured the business sector that his administration is not in favour of imposing higher taxes, but rather creating a conducive environment for growth and job creation.
President Hichilema said his administration is committed to working with the private sector to accelerate economic growth.
He was speaking at State House yesterday during a consultative meeting with the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM).
“As part of our continuous process of interaction with private sector players, members of the Zambia Association of Manufacturers led by group chairman Ashu Sagar visited State House for a consultative engagement,” President Hichilema said. “ZAM continues to play a critical role in our national economic agenda as we focus on the growth ticket.”
He stressed the importance of dialogue between government and businesses, noting that inclusive consultation was key to addressing economic challenges.
“Our mission to meet all economic stakeholders, hear first-hand their challenges, and find collaborative solutions cannot be overemphasised,” Mr Hichilema said.
“Government and the private sector must work in one direction to create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive in order to grow the economy and create jobs for our people.”
He also pointed out that the country’s domestic and export markets offered vast opportunities, provided there was teamwork and fair competition.
“The market is huge, and there is space for everyone to innovate, compete fairly, and succeed,” President Hichilema said.
President Hichilema made it clear that his administration does not intend to overburden businesses with excessive taxation.
“We are not fans of high taxes; we are fans of growth. For it is higher growth, supported by reasonable taxes, that brings more revenue to the treasury,” he said. Mr Hichilema also urged private sector players to enhance internal consultations to reduce conflicts and costly disputes.
“Government and the private sector must continue to engage with each other, while at the same time, private sector players must also strengthen consultation among themselves.
This will ensure harmony, reduce disputes, and avoid costly litigation, thereby allowing resources to be channelled towards growth and productivity,” President Hichilema said.