From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
In a move aimed at streamlining fiscal management, the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has announced the integration of the Incentive Monitoring and Evaluation Platform (IMEP) into the Import Duty Exemption Certificate (IDEC) programme, creating opportunity for enhanced monitoring and evaluation. The IDEC programme strategically reduces import duty burden for priority sectors such as; manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare, stimulating economic growth and national development. Integrated into the IDEC framework, the newly launched IMEP ensures that only eligible entities benefit, rigorously enforcing compliance and optimising tax expenditures to reduce waste, block leakages and enhance economic equity.
Key features of the IMEP include; an automated claw-back mechanism for recouping waivers from defaulters, real-time e-report generation and a centralised database that enhances the efficiency of verification processes. IMEP aims to ensure that tax incentives are rationalised to deliver maximum economic impact, aligning with the government’s commitment to reducing waste, blocking leakages, and fostering a robust and equitable economic environment. IMEP’s precise monitoring capabilities will significantly enhance the strategic allocation of exemptions and support the government’s objective to ultimately reduce tax expenditures. To acquaint all stakeholders with the upgraded IDEC framework, the Ministry of Finance will host a webinar on April 25th, 2024, by 12 noon (WAT).
Key industry participants, including manufacturers, importers, and representatives from MDAs and NGOs are invited to engage in this session to understand the enhanced features and benefits of the IMEP.