THE Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) in Kagera Region has conducted a major operation to tackle tax evasion involving unregistered production of spirits in 100ml, 125ml, and 200ml quantities without proper registration, licensing, or Electronic Tax Stamps (ETS).

In February 2025, approximately 25,433 bottles were seized.

The operation was conducted by the Kagera regional office under regional manager Castro John, in collaboration with Karagwe District manager William Mneney.

As a result, the following suspects were arraigned at the Resident Magistrate Court in Bukoba on Monday, facing charges under the Excise Duty Act: Mwesiga Reopard Rupia, Nelius Kaizelege Mwami, Julieth Ishengoma Kisheni, and Mlokozi Egibert Emely.

TRA's actions follow a nationwide call for businesses and traders to comply urgently with tax regulations and the ETS system.

The use of counterfeit stamps fuels illicit trade, jeopardising consumer health, creating unfair competition, and depriving the government of critical tax revenue that could be invested in essential services like education and healthcare. In Tanzania, illicit alcohol trade results in an estimated loss of 1.2 trillion/-   in uncollected excise duty annually, a serious issue that TRA is actively addressing by identifying and prosecuting fraudsters.

The Tanzanian government recognises the contributions of taxpayers and is committed to creating a competitive business environment while fighting fraud. This is being achieved through an advanced tax administration system, market surveillance, and cutting-edge technology.

To combat illicit trade, the government has deployed effective enforcement teams and field inspectors conducting audits from production to retail, using specialised devices to verify the authenticity of products. Additionally, TRA recently hired 1,000 staff members to focus on combating illicit trade and smuggling. The use of ETS since 2019 and the introduction of the Hakiki App allows consumers to verify the authenticity and quality of their purchases.