Georgetown: The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced that it has recovered in excess of $114M in smuggled items during the first four months of the year, as efforts continue to fight smuggling of prohibited goods into Guyana.
The GRA in a press statement noted that between January and April this year, its Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) unearthed a significant quantity of foreign imported chicken, banned mosquito coils and motor vehicles among other items that are commonly smuggled here.
The discoveries were made during a countrywide compliance campaign and while it was also observed that many of those caught with the items were first time offenders, repeat offenders have been asked to pay triple the value of the duties as penalties levelled against them.
Officers during the campaign also observed that several businesses are non-compliant with the GRA regulations, and while business owners were informed of their shortcomings, follow-up visits will be forthcoming.
The GRA statement said as the LEID operations continue, it will ensure that all businesses and individuals who are required to pay taxes comply with all necessary licensing and other requirements.
“The compliance campaign is ongoing and persons are being encouraged to visit the GRA and get their relevant documentation in order,” GRA said.
GRA Communication and Tax Advisory Services (CTAS) Division will also continue its public awareness campaign.
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