KRA launches online auction after piloting

Kenyans will now have an opportunity to participate in customs auctions remotely from the comfort of their locations after Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) unveiled an online auction as part of the authority’s technological strategies aimed at streamlining tax administration procedures.

According to KRA, the e-auction is expected to enhance service delivery and subsequently bolster revenue collection, especially after a successful piloting of the online auction, through which KRA collected Sh 37.5 million.

The auction which was in the past a physical process was marred by reports of a web of cartels operating at the port, who used to cut deals of mega syndicates.

Speaking during the Taxpayers’ Month Launch at Customs House, Mombasa, KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga said the online auction will give taxpayers the opportunity to appreciate transparency of the bidding process.He noted that the negotiation process will be faster and accessible to registered taxpayers countrywide and globally.

“The process will boost government efforts to decongest ports and ensure cargo is cleared in a timely and efficient manner,” Wattanga noted, adding “All members of the public are eligible and must have KRA PIN number.”