GRA anti-smuggling campaign nets $114M in revenue

Last Updated on Wednesday, 18 May 2016, 16:42 by

The Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is continuing its efforts in the fight against smuggling recovering over 100M in taxes thus far for 2016.

GRA said that these operations are likely to be boosted as the Regional Operations launched its countrywide compliance campaign.

“For the period January to April, 2016, LEID, through its planned activities has been able to recoup in excess of one hundred and fourteen million dollars ($114,000,000). These exercises continue to unearth a significant quantity of commonly smuggled items which include foreign imported chicken, mosquito coils that are banned and motor vehicles,” a statement noted.

The release indicated that for a number of these offences, the offenders have been identified for the first time. However, in some cases it has been noted that the perpetrators are repeat offenders, in which case the penalties are levied as payment triple the value of the duties.

Even as LEID continues its operations, the Regional Operations has begun a countrywide compliance campaign with the aim of ensuring all businesses or persons who are required to pay taxes are complying with all necessary requirements in terms of licences.

“As a result of the compliance campaign, it has been discovered that a large number of businesses are non-compliant. Business owners were informed of their shortcomings and follow-up visits will be forthcoming,” the statement informed.

The compliance campaign is ongoing and persons are being encouraged to visit the GRA and get their relevant documentation in order.

In addition to the efforts of LEID and the Regional Operations, the Communication and Tax Advisory Services Division of the GRA will also be continuing its Public Awareness campaign.