At the 2^nd Annual Regional Industrialization Conference held at Kampala Serena Hotel, stakeholders affirmed a strong commitment to curbing illicit trade, which they warned is draining East Africa of vital revenues, affecting markets, and jeopardizing public safety.

Under the theme ‘‘Enhancing Policy Advocacy for Sustainable Regional Industrial Growth,’’ participants, including government officials, development partners, private sector leaders, and civil society, outlined a multifaceted strategy to fight illicit activity.

Key proposals included strengthening self-regulation, formalizing small-scale enterprises, harmonizing international and domestic taxes, and embracing technological innovations to bolster enforcement.

Kyomuhendo Moses, Manager, Customs Central Region, representing the Commissioner of the Executive Office Operations, Abel Kagumire, outlined Uganda Revenue Authority’s (URA) ongoing efforts to stamp out illicit trade as follows:

• URA, in collaboration with UNODC and the World Customs Organization (WCO), has trained customs, police, and wildlife personnel in risk profiling, container control, and identifying smuggled items particularly timber and wildlife products.
• Digital tools like Digital Tax Stamps and the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS) have delivered measurable results, including a surge in excise tax collections.
• Establishment of the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) has enabled real-time tracking of transit goods across Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, leading to shorter transit times, reduced theft, and enhanced revenue protection.
• Intensified outreach in high-risk border districts such as Moyo, Yumbe, Busia, Arua, and Koboko to raise awareness and boost compliance at the local level.
• Strategic collaborations with stakeholders, such as Uganda Breweries Ltd to reinforce shared responsibility in cracking down on counterfeit and illicit alcohol distribution.

Illicit trade corrosive effects extend beyond lost revenue, eroding legitimate industries, undermining public safety, and leading to unfair market competition, thus a need to tackle it.

By Niyonshima Joshua