URA Steps In to Support Traders Hit by Container Leaders’ Delays

Kampala — The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has announced a new initiative aimed at helping traders whose goods have been unfairly withheld by so-called “container leaders.” This comes after a wave of complaints from importers about cargo delays and undelivered goods.

In a statement published Thursday, URA management acknowledged the growing frustration among traders whose goods, shipped through a range of companies and individuals, have been delayed or withheld. The authority alleges that these “container leaders” evade taxes and overcharge importers, often shifting blame for the delays to URA itself.

“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 public notice read.

Companies and individuals named by URA as involved in these practices include: 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.

Commissioner General John Musinguzi has urged affected traders to report to the 16th Floor of the URA Tower in Nakawa, Kampala, where they can register complaints and receive assistance in tracking and reclaiming their cargo after paying applicable taxes. “We are aware of the hardships traders are facing due to unscrupulous container leaders. URA is here to help,” Musinguzi said, calling for traders to come forward with all available transaction evidence.

Traders are encouraged to bring national identification, payment receipts, invoices, bills of lading, and any correspondence with the shipping agents. The URA has also issued a stern warning to companies and individuals involved in container leading, calling it a “fraudulent method of trade.”

URA reiterated its commitment to a transparent trade environment and said it will continue to take action to protect importers and support fair business practices.