The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has officially launched a special Trade Facilitation Desk, which will be responsible for overseeing the growth and development of trade across the country.

The launch was officiated by TRA Commissioner General Mr. Yusuph Juma Mwenda at the Chief Kingalu Main Market in Morogoro on August 16, 2026. This initiative is part of the implementation of directives from the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, aimed at promoting the business sector in the country.

Speaking during the launch, Mr. Mwenda stated that the desk will officially start operating on August 19, 2025, and will be available in all regions of Tanzania, with 200 desks already established nationwide.

“The aim of the desk is not to collect taxes, but to identify traders, support their growth, and address the challenges they face in their business activities,” said Mr. Mwenda.

Mr. Mwenda also emphasized that TRA is genuinely committed to working with traders to strengthen the national economy.

“This is not a desk to squeeze money from traders but to help them grow. We want to see every entrepreneur realizing their business dreams,” Mr. Mwenda added.

He further stated that the desk will serve as a platform to receive opinions and suggestions from traders to improve the business environment in the country. According to Mr. Mwenda, the ultimate goal is to see traders grow and elevate their businesses to higher levels.

As part of business development efforts, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania has directed a reduction in the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate from 18% to 16% for traders using digital payment systems, such as mobile or bank payments.

On his part, the Chairman of the Tanzania Business Community (JWT) in Morogoro Region, Mr. Ally Mamba, commended the move, saying that the desk will significantly contribute to the growth of the business sector in the country.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Small Traders (Machinga) in Morogoro Region, Mr. Faustine Francis, expressed his confidence that the desk will help small traders gain official recognition and support them to grow into large-scale entrepreneurs.

This launch marks a significant step in the Government of Tanzania’s efforts to create an enabling environment for traders, especially those in the informal sector, and to ensure they can sustainably contribute to the national economy.

The End.