BUJUMBURA, July 15 (ABP) – The minister of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Nestor Ntahontuye, conducted a visit on Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Bujumbura city, accompanied by a team from the OBR. The visit aimed to assess the implementation of laws related to the budget, VAT, and public revenue collection.
On the ground, several irregularities were observed. Some traders did not have electronic billing machines. Others, although equipped, intentionally underreported the amounts on the invoices.
Shops were closed for fraud. Minister Ntahontuye cited the example of a well-stocked store that declared a monthly turnover of only 460,000 BIF.
The offending traders were sent to the OBR to regularize their situation. Their stores will be allowed to reopen once they are in compliance.
The minister of finance also reminded that the law requires customers to request an electronic invoice. In case of non-compliance, goods can be seized and later reclaimed after paying a fine equivalent to 20% of their value. He called on all traders to use the electronic billing machine correctly. According to him, this tool is essential for ensuring transparency and improving state revenue