Finance Minister Ericah Shafudah has pledged tougher action against large companies that fail to comply with Namibia’s tax laws, following public concerns that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are facing disproportionate pressure from the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA).
“The public has raised issues, noting that it seems too much pressure is being placed on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and small businesses, while larger companies are not facing the same level of scrutiny. I have also instructed NamRA to be firm with companies that are not paying their taxes,” Shafudah said.
She emphasised that tax compliance is essential to fund government programmes, reduce debt levels and maintain fiscal sustainability.
While SMEs must also honour their obligations, Shafudah said NamRA had been instructed to intensify enforcement among major corporations with outstanding liabilities.
“I want to make it clear that the pressure is on everyone, as the emphasis is on complying with tax, customs, and excise laws. I am not threatening anyone, but I am making it clear: those that have not been complying with tax laws will be held accountable. Prepare yourselves, because we are coming for you,” she said.
The minister added that revenue collection remains central to the government’s fiscal strategy, alongside reforms to the Public Procurement Act and efforts to broaden the domestic revenue base.
On the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act, Shafudah said government was working to build capacity to ensure the legislation was effectively implemented.
She noted that while only a few projects had so far been executed through PPP arrangements, new mechanisms were now in place to expand their use.
“However, we have now put in place mechanisms to ensure that PPPs are used as a method, vehicle, or tool to drive development and finance projects in our country,” she said.
