Clearing agents urged to embrace compliance, technology amid evolving tax landscape
Facilitators stressed that the business environment is rapidly evolving, driven by artificial intelligence, e-commerce and digital tax systems, and warned that professionals who fail to adapt risk being left behind.
Clearing and forwarding agents being tasked to popularise tax paying among their clients at UMI. (Photo by Titus Kakembo)
_________________
More than 150 members of the Uganda Clearing Industry and Forwarding Association (UCIFA) have been urged to embrace technology, strengthen tax compliance and adapt to the fast-changing global business environment if they are to remain relevant in the trade and logistics sector.
The call was made during a refresher symposium held at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI) on June 19, 2026, where customs and clearing agents gathered to sharpen their skills and align themselves with emerging tax systems, digital platforms and modern business practices.
The symposium focused on equipping participants with practical knowledge on how to help their clients remain tax compliant while navigating an increasingly digital economy.
Dedan Mutatinensi, a facilitator from Basewood Consulting Group, challenged participants to rethink how they market and deliver their services.
“You risk being left behind if you remain static in the way you transact business in the AI era. Sell yourself and your services on social media platforms. Today, there is very little you cannot do online,” Mutatinensi said.
He encouraged clearing agents to use technology not only as a marketing tool but also as a means to learn, improve efficiency, client communication and compliance management.
Mutatinensi further urged participants to promote a stronger culture of tax compliance among their clients, noting that ignorance of tax laws often exposes businesses to unnecessary penalties.
Clearing and forwarding agents being tasked to popularise tax paying among their clients at UMI. (Photo by Titus Kakembo)
“Today, 80 percent of the tax collected in Uganda comes through customs and clearing processes. UCIFA is made up of indigenous firms and such symposiums are meant to bridge the knowledge gap,” Namuntale said.
He noted that the clearing and forwarding profession remains one of the most dynamic sectors in the economy, requiring constant learning, adjustment and precision.
According to Namuntale, a single error in customs documentation can have devastating consequences for a client’s business.
“Perfection is compulsory in this field. One wrong entry can cost your client the life of a business. Documentation, compliance with the law and proper certification are the pillars of our profession. We must be both advisors and agents to our clients,” he said.
The symposium also highlighted Uganda Revenue Authority’s ongoing digital tax reforms, particularly the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS), which officials say is simplifying tax administration and improving accountability.
Andrew Balyejusa, a consultant with UMI, cautioned participants against underestimating the legal consequences of non-compliance.
“You either comply with the law or risk serving a prison sentence. Systems like EFRIS and domestic tax automation are making tax clearance, collection and record keeping easier. This is a major step towards zero tolerance for corruption,” Balyejusa said.
He explained that digital systems are reducing loopholes, increasing transparency and making it harder for businesses to evade taxes.
For many participants, the symposium served as an eye-opener to both the opportunities and risks in the changing tax environment.
Frank Mugemeso, one of the participants, said the discussions had broadened his understanding of how customs operations are evolving.
“This meeting has opened my eyes to the opportunities available and the changing ways of doing business. It has shown me that learning must never stop,” Mugemeso said.
Faith Tumusiime was equally impressed, particularly by the growing role of mobile technology in business transactions.
She said it was encouraging to realise that a simple mobile phone could now serve as a powerful platform for business operations, client engagement and tax compliance.
In his closing remarks, Basewood chairman Mwesigwa John reminded members that trust remains one of the most valuable assets in the clearing and forwarding business.
“Trust is as important as knowledge in this business. Clients depend on us to guide them through complex tax and customs systems. Once trust is broken, it is difficult to rebuild,” Mwesigwa said.
He urged members to remain disciplined, compliant and professional if they are to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
“The future is bright, and Uganda’s borders are no longer the limit when it comes to doing business. Opportunities are expanding beyond our frontiers, but only for those who are prepared,” he added.
As Uganda’s trade volumes grow and tax systems become more digitised, industry players say continuous professional development will be key to keeping indigenous clearing firms competitive and compliant in a rapidly changing economic landscape.