Musumu Resources Limited Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sixtus Mulenga is calling for legislation that will block individuals without exploration licenses from trading in rough gemstones if the country is to maximize its revenue collection, increase the value of the minerals and protect them from exploitation.
He argues that trade in rough gemstones must be restricted to individuals with exploration licenses or emerald polishing companies who he says must invest in knowledge acquisition and comply with tax regulations for the government to source external investments into the artisanal and small-scale mining sector.
Dr. Mulenga is further calling for a review of the tax rates for artisanal and small-scale miners to remedy the existing situation where big and small operations are all charged using the same template.
Speaking earlier at the same workshop, ZRA Commissioner-Direct Taxes, Joseph Nonde disclosed that the authority has set up a dedicated artisanal and small-scale mining unit and has also enhanced its communication strategy through ongoing engagements toward improved compliance to tax obligations.
