There is a necessity for tax compliance and accurate data from taxpayers within the creative industry.
This was shared during a stakeholder engagement held by the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) with members of the creative sector.
The session was prompted by the concerns expressed by members of the creative community regarding tax administration, payment procedures, and the difficulties faced at borders when dealing with customs officials during the import or export of their materials.
Only about 588 tax payers from the creative industry have registered with the revenue agency, a relatively small number considering the size of the industry.
NamRA's Commissioner, Sam Shivute, highlighted the importance of tax compliance and acknowledged the significant role that the creative industry plays in both socio-economic development and revenue generation.
Shivute also raised the need to improve domestic resource mobilisation in order to provide for especially destitute communities or the unemployed while striving for sustainable economic development.
"When your books are sorted out, you are tax compliant, you are contributing to the small amount, and you are contributing to the overall tax revenue, and you feel good because there is medication in the hospital, and there is a child of an unemployed mother who is able to go to university because of your contribution."
Representing the creative industry was the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture, which is responsible for harnessing the creative potential of this sector.
This encompasses a diverse range of professionals, including crafters, performers, visual artists, designers, and film producers. Together, they contribute to the cultivation of a vibrant Namibian identity and its growth.
"Members or travellers in the creative industry may also be subjected to random selection or inspection by customs officers, and this is simply to verify that you are not carrying any additional goods that are not declared by customs or anything contrary to the laws and regulations of the republic."
The engagement fosters a strong relationship with the creative community, reaffirming NamRA's dedication to fostering mutual understanding and collaboration with all its stakeholders.