By Jacinta Obore Mirembe
Recently, Abel Kagumire, the Commissioner of Customs at the Uganda Revenue Authority paid a courtesy visit to Britania Allied Industries Limited in the Ntinda Industrial Area to listen to the manufacturer’s challenges while importing cargo into the country.
The Chief Executive Officer of Britania Allied Industries, Abdulati Mohamed Algallta, detailed their challenges, including discrepancies within URA processes regarding the issuance of assessments, the smuggling of substandard goods from Kenya, and audit fatigue. He also mentioned delays by UNBS in releasing their cargo, which is affecting their cash flow.
“The Ugandan market is filled with substandard juices and biscuits from Kenya. I am not against fair competition, but these products do not meet either the EAC or UNBS standards. This is affecting our market,” Abdulati Mohamed remarked.
In his response, Kagumire guaranteed Mohamed that URA is available to provide support in any way possible so that they have a smooth and positive experience to continue their operations.
He also urged the company to avail URA any intelligence that will help the customs department carry out enforcement operations against businesses that are involved in smuggling Kenyan products.
“I am going to follow up on every issue raised here with the various MDA’s. I also want to thank you for setting an example for compliant businesses in the country,” Abel remarked.
Britania Allied Industries Ltd. was established in 1991 and is one of the leading tax-compliant manufacturing companies in Uganda. The company’s range of products includes biscuits, confectionaries, juices, and sauces.
