Windhoek: The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) has introduced a mandatory requirement for traders and clearing agents to possess a tax identification number (TIN) when moving goods through Namibia's borders. This initiative was announced by Commissioner Sam Shivute during a press conference held on Monday.According to Namibia Press Agency, the requirement has been integrated into the upgraded Automated System for Customs Data, which became operational on 5 May 2026. This upgrade addresses a significant gap in the previous system where traders could clear goods without being registered for tax. Commissioner Shivute emphasized that traders and clearing agents must now have a tax number when importing goods for business purposes.The previous system's lack of integration with the domestic tax system allowed traders to conduct operations through customs without triggering income tax obligations. Shivute noted that the absence of a TIN requirement in the past facilitated clearance activities without any tax regis tration.The introduction of TINs is part of NamRA's efforts to establish a structured risk-based compliance environment. This is intended to reduce revenue leakages and enhance control across the customs chain. Shivute highlighted the agency's plan to steadily tighten the connection between customs clearance and domestic tax compliance as the new system evolves.Moreover, the upgraded system eliminates the ability of clearing agents to choose which customs official processes their declarations. Instead, the system now automatically assigns officials to handle declarations, a move aimed at preventing preferential treatment. Shivute explained that this change ensures that clearing agents cannot select their preferred officials, thereby reducing opportunities for bias.Shivute further outlined NamRA's broader objective to minimize physical interactions between traders and NamRA officials. He expressed a vision for the future where taxpayers and traders would not need to visit NamRA in person.