Chinamasa challenges Zimra

Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa has challenged the country's revenue authority to come up with friendly ways to woe the informal sector and to also make it easier for tax payers to comply.

Treasury says in the absence of external assistance, government has prioritised domestic resource mobilisation and broadening of the tax base.

According to Chinamasa, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has to improve efficiencies in tax collection and should tap into the informal sector.

Chinamasa, who was the guest of honour during the 2016 Zimbabwe's Taxpayer Appreciation Awards Dinner, said ZIMRA should encourage the informal sector to comply and also make it easier for businesses to pay tax.

According to treasury, government has prioritised automation of ZIMRA systems in order to plug revenue leakages, improving the ease of doing business and the fight against corruption.

Acting ZIMRA Commissioner General Mr Happias Kuzvinzva hailed the complaint tax payers for remaining resolute in spite of the challenging economic climate, adding that the authority will continue to cultivate the culture of voluntary compliance.

Several entities were honoured during the ceremony for being exemplary and honouring their obligations.

The dinner event was graced by captains of industry, government officials, revenue authority officials from neighbouring countries as well as representatives of the African Tax Administration Forum.