URA Headquarters in Nakawa. Right is URA CG John R. Musinguzi.
Kampala — The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has taken decisive action to support traders affected by persistent delays and withheld goods attributed to so-called “container leaders.” The move follows mounting complaints from importers whose cargo has been held up by intermediaries accused of tax evasion and overcharging.
In a public notice issued Thursday, URA management acknowledged the frustration facing many traders, highlighting that certain companies and individuals have been deliberately delaying the declaration and clearance of goods, while misdirecting blame at URA. “Container Leaders, in an effort to evade government taxes and also overcharge the unsuspecting importers, continue to withhold and delay the declaration and clearance of traders’ goods, while falsely blaming URA for the delays,” the notice stated.
Among those named by URA are Busundo Investments, Def Klin Enterprise, Twine Logistics, Kyalusunga Investments, Maris Cargo U Ltd (Maria’s Cargo), Allia International, Awie Logistics Group Uganda, Lyon Shipping and Freight Co., Ship with US Cargo, Chemical Ali, Lift and Ride Cargo Agencies, Sifcargo, Finiva Logistics, Alivia Cargo Ltd, Ssalongo Cargo, Simba Land, Gold Medal Supply and Logistics Ltd, Avirun Logistics, Odman Holdings, Junction Mall Ltd, M & E Logistics, Mevak Logistics, Campsbay Impex, Credify Africa Inc., B & P Limited, Segtex Logistics, Timways, Timothy Sserunjoji, Intra Cargo Uganda SMC Ltd, Apex Forwarders, Kaketo Pius, Mzeei Mukasa, and Faruk Mubiru.
URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi called on all affected traders to formally lodge complaints at the URA Tower in Nakawa (16th Floor, Office of the Commissioner Executive Office Operations). He emphasized URA’s readiness to help: “We are aware of the hardships traders are facing due to unscrupulous container leaders. URA is here to help. Please bring your documentation so we can assist you in reclaiming your cargo after payment of the required taxes.”
Traders are advised to come prepared with national IDs, payment receipts, packing lists, invoices, bills of lading, and any correspondence with shipping agents. URA also issued a clear warning to all companies and individuals involved in container leading, labeling the practice as fraudulent and vowing to enforce a transparent, fair trading environment.
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to protecting legitimate importers and strengthening trust in Uganda’s trade sector.
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