Revenue Authority Plans Special Mobile Court for Smuggling Cases

(JUBA) – The Commissioner General of the South Sudan Revenue Authority has issued a strong warning to staff and the public over the misuse of tax exemptions and the rise in smuggling, saying the practices are damaging the country’s efforts to raise revenue and stabilise the economy.

William Anyuon Kuol made the remarks during a visit to the Customs Division office in Juba on Thursday. He said uncontrolled tax exemptions and smuggling pose serious risks to government income at a time when South Sudan is facing economic pressure.

The Commissioner General said the country’s leadership has directed the revenue authority to stop the practice of granting multiple tax exemptions. He noted that excessive exemptions are affecting the funds that should be collected and used to support economic recovery and public services.

“Our leadership has given us clear direction that we should avoid the issue of multiple exemptions,” Anyuon said. “These exemptions are not helping the country. Instead, they are interrupting the revenue that should be used for economic recovery.”

He explained that while some institutions qualify for tax exemptions under the law, these benefits do not apply to all individuals or businesses. He warned that exempting everyone would leave the government without resources to fund development.

“Some entities are legally exempted, but not everybody is exempt from paying tax,” he said. “If everybody is exempted, then who will pay tax? Without taxes, there is no development of the country.”

Anyuon also raised concern over increasing cases of smuggling, which he said further weaken revenue collection. He announced plans to establish a special court to deal specifically with smuggling offences.

According to the Commissioner General, the South Sudan Revenue Authority is working with the Ministry of Finance and legal teams to form a mobile court that will handle smuggling cases promptly. He said the court would move to areas where cases are reported to ensure faster action.

“The mobile court will move to where there are cases so that they are handled quickly,” he said. “Anyone involved in smuggling will face the law.”

He said the decision to establish a special court is driven by the need to respond urgently to economic challenges facing the country. He added that delays in handling smuggling cases have contributed to continued revenue losses.

The Commissioner General warned that business people who avoid paying taxes or engage in smuggling will also be subject to the court. He said tax compliance by the business community is essential for economic stability and growth.

“These measures are meant to strengthen tax collection and support the government’s effort to stabilise the economy,” Anyuon said. “Taxpayers, including those doing business in South Sudan, must follow the law.”

Key measures announced

The South Sudan Revenue Authority says stricter enforcement will help protect public revenue and improve the government’s ability to deliver services across the country.