TRA eyes longer validity for cooking oil import permits

UNGUJA: THE Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) is considering extending the validity period of cooking oil import permits to ensure uninterrupted supplies and ease trade between Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

TRA Commissioner General, Mr Yusuph Mwenda, said the authority had initially issued permits for the importation of 45,000 tonnes of cooking oil. Of this amount, 25,000 tonnes had already been imported, leaving 20,000 tonnes expected to enter the country by December 31, 2026.

Mr Mwenda made the remarks during a courtesy visit to Zanzibar Minister for Finance and Planning, Dr Juma Malik Akil, at the Ministry’s offices in Unguja.

He was accompanied by a TRA delegation and introduced the authority’s Acting Deputy Commissioner for Zanzibar, Mr Rashid Suleiman Herikh.

“The remaining quantity would be imported by traders who had already secured permits. However, we are also reviewing the possibility of extending the permit issuance period to sustain business operations in line with market demand,” he said.

He added, “We are considering extending the period for issuing permits because the demand for cooking oil is known. We have directed a team of experts to sit with traders and provide feedback within 30 days.”

Mr Mwenda directed TRA officials to maintain close engagement with traders, listen to their concerns and address challenges arising during business operations.

He emphasised that listening to taxpayers was an important step towards facilitating business, adding that TRA officers should remain accessible to traders and work towards resolving difficulties affecting their operations.

“Trade between Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar should take place without unnecessary barriers. TRA is working to address existing bottlenecks affecting the movement of goods,” he said.

As another measure to improve trade, Mr Mwenda announced plans to designate a special area at the port for handling cargo destined for Zanzibar.

Tanzania Traders Association Vice-Chairman and Zanzibar Freight Forwarders Association President, Mr Omar Hussein Mussa, welcomed TRA’s engagement with the business community.

“Zanzibar traders will continue cooperating with the authority to promote trade and improve citizens’ economic wellbeing,” he said.

Traders also welcomed the authority’s willingness to listen to their concerns, saying continued cooperation between TRA and businesses was important in simplifying procedures and supporting economic growth.