Revenue authority prioritises tech, smart borders to improve trade efficiency

He said trade figures between 2021 and 2025 showed growth in both exports and imports, with the total number of customs declarations reaching 1,346,946 by the end of 2025, up from 885,172 in 2021.

Banda said the automation of customs processes, introduction of one-stop border posts and extension of border operating hours were among the key reforms implemented by the authority between 2021 and 2026 to improve trade facilitation.

“From 2027 to 2031, ZRA will prioritise improved system reliability, Smart Borders and Corridors, an advanced Electronic Single Window, an Electronic Cargo Tracking System, and paperless customs administration. The initiatives are among other measures to improve trade facilitation,” he said.

He said the reforms required the support of an ethical and professionally competent customs clearing industry.

Banda called for open dialogue between the authority and clearing agents to address operational challenges, ensure accurate revenue collection, provide reliable services to traders and maintain effective control over goods.

He said dialogue was essential to resolving operational challenges and improving service delivery.

“An efficient, predictable, transparent, and competitive trade environment is essential to increased revenue collection, investment, employment, and sustainable economic growth,” Banda said.

Earlier, ZCFAA president, Evans Mweemba, said customs clearing agents were strategic partners in revenue mobilisation and the growth of Zambia’s private sector.

Mweemba pledged the association’s commitment to working with ZRA and supporting the achievement of objectives under the Grow Zambia Agenda.

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