Tax coverage in the country has grown significantly over the past two decades, rising from 57.23% in 2006 to 78.26% in 2024, an indicator that reflects the broadening of the tax base and the strengthening of the state’s capacity to mobilize domestic revenue, reported the Mozambique Information Agency.
According to the agency, the data was released during the celebrations of National Taxpayer Day, observed on March 22, as part of the 20th anniversary of the Mozambique Tax Authority, at a ceremony highlighting the progress the country has made in tax administration.
On that occasion, Prime Minister Benvinda Levi emphasized that “the progress stems from an ongoing process of institutional reforms that has allowed for the consolidation of the tax system and improved efficiency in revenue collection.”
Benvinda Levi explained that, prior to the creation of the Tax Authority, “the existing model had limitations in terms of coordination and control, making it difficult to combat tax evasion and customs fraud.”
According to Benvinda Levi, the unification of tax and customs structures, with the integration of the General Directorate of Customs and the National Directorate of Taxes and Auditing, was crucial for overcoming historical weaknesses and strengthening the state’s capacity.
The minister noted that this reorganization has contributed to greater transparency and efficiency in tax administration, while also aligning Mozambique’s tax system with international standards.
This progress is the result of an ongoing process of institutional reforms that has helped consolidate the tax system and improve the efficiency of revenue collection
Benvinda Levi
For Benvinda Levi, the theme of this year’s celebrations highlights the central role of taxpayers in the sustainability of public finances, underscoring the importance of a relationship based on trust and shared responsibility between the state and its citizens.
Benvinda Levi also noted progress in the modernization of tax services, including improvements in customer service and greater revenue mobilization capacity—factors that have enabled the State to finance public policies more effectively.
Despite the progress, the Prime Minister acknowledged that “challenges remain,” advocating for the need to deepen reforms while simultaneously stimulating economic activity.
In this context, Benvinda Levi announced that the government will continue to focus on the digitization of tax and customs services, the simplification of procedures, and the broadening of the tax base.
The minister reaffirmed that the goal is to make the tax system fairer, more inclusive, and aligned with international best practices.
During the ceremony, Benvinda Levi also expressed her gratitude to taxpayers and Tax Authority employees, highlighting their role in strengthening public finances and the country’s development.
