MRA HAS SETTLED TAX REFUNDS FOR MOST TOBACCO FARMERS

The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) says it has successfully processed and settled tax refunds owed to the majority of tobacco farmers across the country.

Taxpayer Education Specialist, Wadza Otomani, said this recently during area meetings organized by the Tobacco Association of Malawi (TAMA) Farmers Trust.

Otomani assured farmers that if any remained unpaid, the Authority was committed to process their refunds and pay the farmers as soon as possible.

“We would like to assure all affected farmers that any outstanding refunds are being processed and would be paid soon,’’ he stated.

He further emphasized that going forward, tax refund issues will no longer be a challenge for farmers because small scale tobacco farmers were subject to 1% Withholding Tax which is final on their sales as opposed to 3%, they were previously deducted.

This is intended to ease the financial burden among small-scale tobacco farmers, enabling them to focus on growing their businesses without the hassle of seeking refunds from MRA, added Otomani.

During the area meetings, MRA also warned farmers against smuggling tobacco to neighbouring countries, stressing that those caught will be punished severely in accordance with the law.

TAMA Farmers Trust area meetings were held simultaneously at different places in the three regions of the country and MRA was represented at all the area meetings.

BY WADZA OTOMANI