ZICA Calls for Dialogue on Tax Reforms as 2026 Tax Updates Workshop Opens in Lusaka
The Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) has called for constructive dialogue on Zambia’s evolving tax reforms as the 2026 Tax Updates Workshop officially opened on 6th February at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka.
Opening the workshop, ZICA President Mrs Yande Siame Mwenye urged accounting and finance professionals to critically assess recent tax policy changes and their practical implications for businesses and the wider economy.
Mrs Mwenye noted that Zambia’s tax landscape is undergoing significant transformation, driven by national development priorities, fiscal consolidation efforts and government initiatives to broaden the tax base while safeguarding taxpayer rights.
She said the 2026 National Budget introduces reforms aimed at improving efficiency and compliance in tax administration, while also supporting productive sectors of the economy.
Particular attention, she said, should be paid to the newly implemented Minimum Alternative Tax, which, although intended to secure government revenue, poses challenges for loss-making companies, micro, small and medium enterprises, start-ups, thin-margin businesses and capital-intensive sectors.
Mrs Mwenye encouraged participants to use the workshop to analyse the tax’s impact on business cash flow and long-term sustainability.
She also highlighted growing concerns around tax dispute resolution in Zambia, stressing the need for increased awareness of taxpayer rights and more effective engagement between taxpayers and authorities.
The ZICA President commended facilitators from KPMG, PwC and HEPTA Advisory Services, alongside representatives from the Zambia Revenue Authority and the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, describing their participation as a “rare combination of expertise”.
She called on participants to openly share their day-to-day challenges to help generate practical, solution-oriented discussions that will benefit both professionals and the broader economy.
The 2026 Tax Updates Workshop brings together accountants, tax practitioners and policymakers to deliberate on current and emerging tax issues shaping Zambia’s economic environment.
