Melo News | Wednesday, 7th February 2024 | Lusaka
According to ZRA corporate communications manager Oliver Nzala, the digitalization of payments by the Authority has multiple benefits. These include reducing collection costs, improving the taxpayer experience, reducing fraud risks, minimizing queues, enhancing efficiency and accountability, and providing more payment options.
Between 2012 and 2013, the Real-Time Gross Settlement for large payments was replaced, marking the initial step towards incorporating electronic systems into the payment framework.
This transition to electronic payments resulted in a modest increase in electronic transactions, although the majority of taxpayers, around 90%, still relied on manual payment methods.
The introduction of the Integrated Payment System (IPS) has been instrumental in enhancing accessibility and convenience for taxpayers through various mobile platforms. The IPS aims to simplify tax payment and collection, providing greater convenience for taxpayers.
The Authority is committed to process improvements that encourage compliance by utilizing appropriate technology to reduce both time and cost associated with business operations.
Mr Nzala emphasized the advantages of digitalized payment systems for both the ZRA and taxpayers. To achieve this, the Authority plans to close cash offices handling DOMT payments and redistribute staff to different departments.
By June 2024, the goal is to have all DOMT payments processed electronically, with Customs payments reaching a 50 percent electronic processing rate.
