ZRA offers 100% waiver on penalties and interest in voluntary disclosure scheme

THE Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has introduced a 100% waiver on accrued penalties and interest for taxpayers who settle outstanding principal tax liabilities under a new Extended Voluntary Disclosure Scheme. The scheme will run from Sept. 17 to Dec. 31, 2026, the Ministry of Finance and National Planning said. Finance and National Planning Minister Dr.

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THE Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has introduced a 100% waiver on accrued penalties and interest for taxpayers who settle outstanding principal tax liabilities under a new Extended Voluntary Disclosure Scheme.

The scheme will run from Sept. 17 to Dec. 31, 2026, the Ministry of Finance and National Planning said.

Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane officially launched the scheme at an event in Lusaka. He said it is designed to give taxpayers with outstanding liabilities an opportunity to regularize their tax affairs.

Under the nationwide initiative, taxpayers who have accumulated unpaid principal, penalties or interest will receive a full waiver on penalties and interest once the principal amount is settled.

Musokotwane said the scheme provides an environment for taxpayers and businesses to thrive and strengthens tax administration and voluntary compliance.

“It is important to note that the EVDS is not a reward for non-compliance,” Musokotwane said. “It is a carefully designed compliance intervention that gives eligible taxpayers a structured opportunity to correct past omissions and begin meeting their obligations consistently.”

He said tax revenues promote national development by financing the national budget and called on eligible taxpayers to contribute their fair share.

Commissioner General Dingani Banda said non-compliance remains a challenge in tax administration and the scheme reflects ZRA’s commitment to strengthening voluntary compliance and supporting domestic resource mobilization.

The launch was attended by government officials, ZRA staff and management, tax professionals, representatives from civil society and tax associations.

Taxpayers are encouraged to take advantage of the window to regularize their tax accounts before the Dec. 31 deadline.

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