Editor's Review

In a notice, KRA insisted that the launch of the new platform is critical to ensure that all traders generate and transmit their invoices to KRA via the electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS). 

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has launched a new simplified platform targeting all businesses, including those in the Informal Sector and Small Businesses.

In a notice dated Monday, March 4, the taxman insisted that the launch of the new platform is critical to ensure that all traders generate and transmit their invoices to KRA via the electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS). 

To make it possible, KRA launched eTIMS Lite platform that enables non-VAT registered taxpayers to electronically generate and transmit their invoices to KRA through an easy-to-use interface.

Accessible via the eCitizen platforms, including a USSD option by dialing *222# and a web-based solution at ecitizen.kra.go.ke, the new system aims to alleviate the burden of compliance for small-scale entrepreneurs.

File image of small scale traders at a market. PHOTO | COURTESY

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"We are committed to supporting taxpayers and ensuring compliance with tax regulations," KRA stated.

"Through initiatives like eTIMS Lite and our ongoing engagement with stakeholders, we aim to facilitate a smooth transition to electronic invoicing while providing tailored support to meet the diverse needs of businesses in Kenya," the taxman added.

Besides launching of the new platform, KRA noted that it was keen to scale up sensitisation exercises to inform all the traders in the formal sector to honour their tax obligations.

"In addition to the rollout of the simplified eTIMS solutions, KRA has also made concerted efforts towards publicity, awareness and tax literacy through continuous stakeholder engagements and taxpayer education targeted at players in the informal sector who include farmers, jua kali traders and artisans amongst others. KRA has partnered with the informal sector representative groups and associations to facilitate direct support to taxpayers in these sectors to on board eTIMS," KRA explained.

"KRA wishes to invite taxpayers and representative bodies who may experience challenges adopting the existing solutions to reach out to further explore solutions tailored to cater for their specific needs. One such consideration is the reverse invoicing solution where a seller can/may give consent or authority to the buyer to issue invoices on their behalf."

The move is aimed at increasing the tax bracket a move supported by President William Ruto's administration.