By Mulengera Reporters
The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has intensified its fight against illicit alcohol in a bold new partnership with Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL), signaling a renewed crackdown on counterfeit and untaxed drinks that officials say are costing the country trillions and putting lives at risk.
URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi announced the development after meeting UBL Managing Director Felicite Nson, describing the collaboration as a united front against a growing national threat. Speaking through his official X page, Musinguzi emphasized that the battle goes beyond revenue collection, highlighting public safety, fair business competition, and shared responsibility among stakeholders.
According to authorities, there is an alarming figures showing that illicit alcohol now accounts for about 64.7 percent of the market, leading to an estimated loss of more than UGX 1.6 trillion in tax revenue every year. The widespread presence of counterfeit and unregulated products has also raised serious health concerns, with officials warning that consumers are increasingly exposed to unsafe and potentially dangerous substances.
The partnership aims to tighten enforcement while promoting compliance among manufacturers and distributors. URA recently established a specialized enforcement team tasked with tackling the surge in artisanal and illegal alcohol production, which has become a major challenge across the country.
Industry leaders argue that illegal alcohol not only undermines government revenue but also creates an unfair environment for legitimate businesses that follow regulations and pay taxes.
As part of broader reforms, URA continues to push for digital compliance through initiatives such as the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS), requiring businesses to adopt electronic invoicing to improve transparency and accountability.
Observers say the joint effort could mark a turning point in the fight against illicit alcohol if enforcement remains consistent, warning that failure to act decisively could further erode public safety and economic stability.
