President Museveni has deferred his scheduled meeting with traders to next month to allow for adequate preparation from both sides.
John Kabanda, the president of the Federation of Uganda Traders Association (FUTA), announced that the meeting, initially set for Thursday, June 20, at Kololo ceremonial grounds, has been postponed. This delay will give the President additional time to complete his research on the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS) implemented by the Uganda Revenue Authority.
Kabanda shared this information with the press on Wednesday after meeting with the President at State Entebbe. During their discussion, they addressed several critical issues impacting traders across the country.
"The President elaborated on various matters and requested us to give him more time to study and research the contentious issues raised by traders during our last meeting at Kololo in May," Kabanda stated.
Key topics of concern include the new electronic invoicing system, value-added taxes, and the influx of investors into distribution channels designated for local traders, among other issues.
President Museveni has now committed to meeting the traders on July 31, urging them to maintain better order compared to the previous meeting.
Kabanda, alongside his executive team, called for traders to remain calm and ensure robust attendance, with representation from all regions.
"As the President conducts his research, we should also do our homework so that on July 31, our discussions are fact-based, aiming for a mutually beneficial outcome," Kabanda added.
This upcoming meeting will be the third between President Museveni and traders in Kampala, centered on the implementation of EFRIS by the tax authority.
In April and May, traders, particularly in downtown Kampala, shut down their shops twice, leading the President to instruct the Uganda Revenue Authority to halt the forced implementation of EFRIS and to waive penalties for those who had not yet adopted the system. This decision provided relief to over 2,000 traders.
The electronic invoicing system, EFRIS, has been a significant point of contention, with traders expressing concerns about its implementation and impact on their businesses. The system is designed to enhance tax compliance and streamline transactions, but traders have voiced issues regarding its complexity and the additional financial burden it imposes.
The July 31 meeting aims to address these concerns comprehensively. Both the President and the traders are expected to present well-researched positions to facilitate a constructive dialogue. The goal is to reach a consensus that benefits both the traders and the government, ensuring that the new system is implemented smoothly and fairly, without unduly disadvantaging local businesses.
This extended period of preparation is anticipated to foster a more productive meeting, where practical solutions can be discussed and agreed upon, leading to improved relations between the traders and the government.
