Zimra lobbies for retail taxes to be reduced

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) has recommended Government to reduce taxes for retailers as the influx of illegal vendors in cities and towns is threatening their survival.

Zimra commissioner general Gershem Pasi said this was in light of challenges that many retailers were facing as they have to contend with vendors who sell their wares on pavements in front of their shops.

Retailers argue that the vendors are crippling their operations as they often sell similar goods to theirs at lower prices, disadvantaging them as they have to pay rent and taxes.

Pasi said the influx of vendors had also contributed to the high rate of tax evasion. Zimra is owed over $1 billion in unpaid taxes, a situation blamed on the current economic challenges.