DAR ES SALAAM: THE Ilala District Commissioner, Mr Edward Mpogolo, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to collaborating with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) to improve the business and tax environment at Kariakoo International Market.
Speaking recently, during a meeting with TRA Commissioner General Mr Yusuph Mwenda and representatives of Kariakoo traders, he emphasized the need for a structured approach to business operations to enhance tax compliance and create a fair trading environment.
He noted that when traders operate in a well-organized setting, they are more likely to comply with tax obligations compared to the current situation where many conduct business in congested street spaces.
He also commended President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for allocating 28bn/- for the construction of a new Kariakoo market.
Additionally, he acknowledged the government’s investment in the new Jangwani market, which is expected to accommodate small-scale traders ( Machinga).
To ensure a smooth transition once the new market is completed, Mpogolo directed the City Trade Officer to compile a database of all current Kariakoo traders.
He stressed that those already operating in the area should be prioritized in space allocation to prevent disputes and ensure fairness.
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TRA Commissioner General Yusuph Mwenda highlighted the critical role Kariakoo traders play in revenue generation, stating that the market is home to some of the country’s most consistent taxpayers.
He outlined a three-point strategy aimed at strengthening the market’s contribution to the economy, including a focus on empowering local entrepreneurs to become major business players rather than allowing foreign dominance in key commercial sectors.
He also announced TRA’s plan to fund a comprehensive registration process to ensure all traders are properly identified and tax-compliant.
Mpogolo urged traders who are not yet members of formal business associations to join, emphasizing that structured representation would help them address challenges more effectively and benefit from government initiatives.
Kariakoo traders, in turn, expressed their willingness to pay taxes, while TRA reassured them of continued support in fostering a stable and productive business environment.
