By Irene Kabakama
Uganda Revenue Authority has today launched a taxation handbook (Chinese translation) for the Chinese business community and signed a Memorandum of Understanding between URA and SinoCham.
Speaking at the launch at Silver Springs Hotel – Bugolobi, the URA Commissioner General, John R. Musinguzi appreciated the Chinese Ambassador for the great support China has given Uganda in terms of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and trade.
“I appreciate China for making a significant contribution to the revenue mobilization and development of Uganda through paying taxes,” he said.
He also appreciated the team that worked together to simplify and translate the tax laws and handbook into the Chinese language.
Musinguzi emphasized that URA is taking steps to simplify taxation laws to enable taxpayers understand their obligations and responsibilities, as well as fulfill them.
“Non-compliance is a result of lack of sufficient knowledge, since tax laws are hard to understand. In order to improve compliance, URA will continue to translate more tax materials into languages understood by taxpayers. This will be done to the web portal as well,” he added.
The Commissioner General encouraged the Chinese community to reach out to URA in case of any challenges and assured them of URA’s zero-tolerance to corruption among its staff.
Ambassador Zhang Lizhong noted that the handbook is a testimony to the value of the partnership between China and Uganda.
“China and Uganda have witnessed the growth of bilateral trade volumes and investment levels in the past. The embassy has hosted more engagements in Uganda and is eager to explore more opportunities,” he acknowledged.
During the launch, SinoCham Chairman, Li Jincheng appreciated the efforts made by both URA and the China Chamber of Commerce to produce the handbook.
“The handbook is an efficient tool aimed at assisting the Chinese community in navigating and fulfilling their tax obligations. Taxation is a responsibility to everyone for the economic growth and stability of the nation,” said Jincheng.
The handbook in Chinese is a comprehensive guide, providing valuable information and insights on taxation in Uganda.
The launch of this handbook will enhance the collaboration between the two countries and will be a valuable resource to the Chinese business community.
