• The truck was destined for Vietnam.
• Consignment was intercepted on 24th August, 2022 at the Lusaka Port Office during an inspection.
• There was a concealment of logs that were thicker than allowable 0.15 centimeters.
Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has intercepted a truck laden with 30 tonnes of Rosewood logs destined for Vietnam, with an export value of K25, 000.
Speaking at a press briefing, Authority Acting Corporate Communications Manager Oliver Nzala explained that the consignment was intercepted on 24th August, 2022 at the Lusaka Port Office during an inspection.
Mr. Nzala revealed that when ZRA officers conducted a 100% verification on the truck, they found that there was a concealment of logs that were thicker than the allowable 0.15 centimeters, while some logs were as thick as 0.32 centimeters which is illegal.
He stated the Authority will not tolerate any form of smuggling or concealment of goods in and out of the country resulting into revenue loss for the government.
“ZRA, in collaboration with other government agencies, continues to be vigilant to curb trade on prohibited, illicit/counterfeit goods and other transnational economic crimes,” Mr. Nzala said.
Mr. Nzala said the fight against smuggling will continue for all goods in and out of the country, adding that the Enforcement Unit is active in all major entry ports and other selected areas.
“Taxpayers are encouraged to pay their taxes and remain compliant with tax laws in order to avoid punitive enforcement measures including prosecution and forfeiture of vehicles conveying counterfeit goods,” he added.
