Hon.Fredrick Ngobi Guma graced the Launch andwelcomed all Political leaders, DRC delegation, business community, CBTA, Ministry staff and representatives to the Official launch of the STR. He commended that the outcome of the MoU adopted the common list of products, establishment of the Joint Border Committee and Trade Information desk. He stated that from the available records,(2012-2014), Trade declined by 88% ($167million), which was attributed to failure to exploit the available opportunities in the products such as Iron ore ,Edible oil, steel, sugar, palm oil, spices, wood to mention but a few. He further added that the launch would enable government realize a target of $2 billionin revenue collection and this could only be achieved through a conducive environment, well developed infrastructure and ICT. He appealed to the Traders to comply with customs regulations and pay the required taxes. The Common list of Products were exempted from Import and export tax, but not VAT and withholding tax He discouraged them from using illegal routes in a bid to dodge taxes. He noted that there was no need for unnecessary delays and that documents should be simplified and eased for Traders. He encouraged traders to formalize Trade in order to increase their business opportunities. He also commented on the harassment of female Traders which should stop with immediate effect. He ended by officially established the Joint Border Committee and handed over the tool kits that would help them perform their duties effectively.
