The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) has expressed concern over the continued smuggling of goods into the country, describing the practice as one of the biggest challenges affecting tax collection and border enforcement.
Speaking during a media training session in Blantyre on Tuesday, MRA Head of Corporate Affairs, Wilma Chalulu, said the country’s porous borders continue to make it difficult for the authority to effectively curb the illegal movement of goods.
Chalulu explained that MRA’s efforts are also being hampered by limited human resources, saying the authority does not have enough personnel to monitor all border entry points and stop smuggling activities.
She said addressing the problem requires a collective effort involving other government agencies, communities, and the general public, as MRA cannot tackle the challenge on its own.
Chalulu further pointed to the growing use of motorcycles as another factor fueling smuggling, noting that the small size and mobility of the vehicles make them convenient for transporting illegal goods while avoiding detection.
She urged the media to play a more active role in raising public awareness on the negative impact of smuggling, including revenue losses and unfair competition against businesses that comply with tax laws.
The remarks were made during a media training workshop aimed at strengthening journalists’ understanding of tax administration, compliance, and the critical role taxation plays in national development.
Shire Valley Media Club President Macmillan Mozeyo described the training as an eye-opener, saying it had equipped journalists with valuable knowledge.
He pledged that members of the club would report more effectively on tax-related issues to promote greater public understanding and compliance.
