The Ministry of Revenues and Birhan Ena Selam Printing Enterprise have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to introduce QR codes on tax receipts, marking a significant step toward improving tax collection efficiency and curbing the circulation of counterfeit receipts in Ethiopia.
The MoU, signed by Minister of Revenue Mrs. Aynalem Nigusse and CEO of Birhan Ena Selam Printing Enterprise, Ato Shetahun Wale, aims to incorporate a unique QR code into all tax receipts printed by the enterprise. This move is designed to enhance the traceability and authenticity of tax documents, ensuring that all printed receipts are easily identifiable and verifiable.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Aynalem emphasized that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve national revenue collection and reduce reliance on government expenditures. Over the past four years, the Ministry has introduced various reforms to streamline the services offered to taxpayers, making the tax collection process more efficient and user-friendly.
However, despite previous efforts to improve manual receipt management, the Minister acknowledged that the issue of counterfeit receipts had persisted, undermining the credibility of the tax system. This new initiative, in collaboration with Birhan Ena Selam Printing Enterprise, is expected to address this challenge by adding QR codes to receipts, which will be printed in compliance with Directive No. 188/2017. This directive aims to enhance the use and management of tax receipts across the country.
The Ministry of Revenue has also developed a dedicated digital platform to manage the entire receipt issuance process. Starting December 10, 2024, taxpayers who currently use manual receipts will be able to submit requests for new receipts, which will include the unique QR code. From February 8, 2025, only receipts printed by Birhan Ena Selam Printing Enterprise will be valid nationwide, including in regional and city administrations.
Ato Shetahun Wale, CEO of Birhan Ena Selam Printing Enterprise, assured the public that his organization is fully prepared to print receipts that meet the highest standards of security and are impossible to counterfeit. He reiterated the company’s commitment to fulfilling its role in supporting the government’s revenue collection efforts through the successful implementation of the MoU.
Source (including image): Ethiopian News Agency