The Guyana Revenue (GRA) yesterday started the computerised sale of liquor and trade and miscellaneous licences through its Regional Integrated Offices countrywide in what is being described as a major step in improving tax collection and going after tax dodgers.
“We have now computerised the sale system and are moving from the manual as the benefits of a computerised data collection system offer many benefits. It is laying the foundation for going after business tax evaders and overall a better system of tax administration,” GRA Commissioner-General Khurshid Sattaur told Stabroek News.
Sattaur said that along with the changeover being less tedious for the business community, it is a part of a planned GRA upgrade to make its system more effective.
Persons wishing to apply for new licences or renewals may do so at GRA’s Regional Integrated Tax offices in Corriveton, New Amsterdam, Anna Regina, Bartica and Parika, the GRA said in a statement.
With the exception of Region Four, the sale of Trade and Miscellaneous licences was previously carried out by the Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs). Persons residing in Region 4 will continue to process their applications for new and the renewal of Trade and Miscellaneous Licences at the License Revenue Office located at Smyth and Princess Streets.
In addition, the GRA said persons residing in regions three and five may also utilise the GRA office at Smyth and Princes streets or any other GRA location at their convenience. However, it noted that persons in regions one, eight, and nine have the choice to continue to applying for licence renewals at their respective RDCs or at the nearest GRA office. “The GRA has been working with the Ministry of Local Government to ensure a smooth transition of the service which previously offered by several Regional Democratic Council,” it added.
Persons seeking further may call the agency’s hotline on telephone number 227-6060.
