MRA Engages CSOs on New Electronic Invoicing System

By Mayamiko Phiri

The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) has engaged civil society organizations (CSOs) in an orientation meeting on the newly introduced Electronic Invoicing System (EIS).

The EIS replaces the Electronic Fiscal Devices (EFDs), but its rollout has faced resistance from some sections of the business community.

Speaking during the session held in Blantyre on Tuesday, Commissioner of Domestic Taxes, Grey Balawe, said the engagement is aimed at helping stakeholders better understand the new system.

He said MRA will continue holding discussions not only with CSOs but also with traders who have been protesting against the measure.

“This engagement is important so that members of civil society understand the new tax measure. We will also continue engaging traders who have been protesting the system to ensure they fully understand how it operates,” said Balawe.

The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC), an umbrella body for CSOs, has welcomed the discussions but says it is taking a cautious approach.

HRCC board chairperson, Robert Mkwezalamba, said the meeting provides an opportunity for the organisation to come up with an informed position on the policy.

“We want to understand the objectives of this taxation and how it will affect Malawians so that we can play our role effectively, if we are convinced of its merits,” he said.

Mkwezalamba added that CSOs will focus on three key areas: understanding the objectives of the EIS, assessing its impact on ordinary Malawians, and defining the role of civil society in supporting or scrutinizing its implementation.

The MRA says it will continue engagements as the rollout of the system progresses.