MRA Publication

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://elibrary.mra.mw/handle/123456789/40

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2018 MRA Guide for Importers and Dangers of smuggling
(2018) Malawi Revenue Authority
The document from the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) outlines the legal implications and consequences of smuggling in Malawi, emphasizing that smuggling is a criminal offense punishable under the Customs & Excise Act. Individuals caught smuggling goods face severe penalties, including fines ranging from K100,000 to ten times the duty amount or imprisonment for up to three years. The MRA also highlights the importance of proper customs procedures for importers, including the declaration of goods and the potential for preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Smuggling undermines government revenue, which is essential for funding public services like infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture. The document encourages citizens to report suspected smuggling activities to help protect national interests and promote development.
MRA Malawi Time Release Study Report
(MRA, 2019) Malawi Revenue Authority
The Malawi Time Release Study Report 2019, conducted by the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), presents a comprehensive analysis of the efficiency of customs processes at the Songwe Border Station, which serves as a critical point of entry between Malawi and Tanzania. The study aimed to measure the average time taken for the clearance of goods, identify bottlenecks in the clearance chain, and establish a baseline for future assessments of trade facilitation reforms. The report highlights significant findings, including that the average release time for imports was approximately 15 hours and 58 minutes, while exports averaged 5 hours and 35 minutes. It was observed that pre-lodged declarations significantly reduced clearance times compared to on-arrival declarations. The study also identified various challenges affecting efficiency, such as staff shortages, inadequate infrastructure, lack of transparency, and the need for improved technical skills among customs officers. Recommendations include increasing the number of customs staff, enhancing training for scanner operations, implementing an electronic single window system, and improving infrastructure at the border. The findings serve as a baseline for future studies and underscore the importance of continuous improvement in customs processes to enhance trade facilitation and competitiveness in Malawi.
what is smuggling
(MRA, 2017) 2017 MRA Smuggling guide
The document provides an overview of smuggling in Malawi, defining it as the illegal importation or exportation of goods to evade Customs duties and regulations. It highlights the dangers of smuggling, including the loss of government revenue necessary for public services and infrastructure, as well as potential health risks from smuggled goods. The document advises individuals to report suspected smuggling activities to the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) or police, emphasizing that supporting smugglers contributes to national financial loss and personal impoverishment. Consequences for smugglers include fines or imprisonment, as smuggling is a criminal offense under Customs and Excise laws. The document also explains the Temporary Import Permit (TIP) system, which allows non-residents to import vehicles for a limited time without paying taxes. A TIP is valid for up to 30 days and can be extended under certain conditions. The document outlines eligibility criteria for obtaining a TIP and warns against selling or disposing of vehicles under this permit. Overall, it underscores the importance of compliance with tax laws for national development.