The Rwanda Revenue Authority has extended the period for submitting certified financial statements from three months to six months, a reform aimed at easing tax compliance and improving the quality of financial reporting.
The announcement was made during the 15th Annual Tax Convention organized by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda in Musanze.
The three-day convention, held under the theme “From Law to Practice: Building Hands-on Tax Competence for Real Impact,” brings together tax experts, policymakers, accountants, and business leaders to examine Rwanda’s evolving tax landscape and the practical challenges of compliance in an increasingly digital environment.
Discussions at the convention are focused on strengthening e-taxation systems, improving digital infrastructure, and addressing systemic bottlenecks that affect taxpayers.
Participants also assessed Rwanda’s readiness to implement the Digital Services Tax and the policy frameworks required to ensure fair and efficient taxation in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Concerns were raised over the previously tight March 31 deadline for submitting certified financial statements, with taxpayers citing system congestion, delayed audits, and limited time to prepare accurate financial records.
Responding to these concerns, Rwanda Revenue Authority Commissioner General Ronald Niwenshuti said the extended filing period would allow taxpayers adequate time to submit complete and accurate information, while supporting better compliance.
He also announced that from the 2026–2027 financial year, the Authority will introduce a dedicated online platform to facilitate the smooth submission of certified financial statements and reduce last-minute congestion.
The issue of system overload near filing deadlines was also discussed. RRA Director of Tax Filing and Payment Victor Uwayezu acknowledged that heavy traffic on the final day of filing continues to strain online systems, largely due to last-minute submissions.
He encouraged early filing, particularly among small taxpayers, noting that RRA has established one-stop centres across the country to provide support and that January and February should be used for early submissions to ease pressure in March.
Participants also discussed the recently introduced Value Added Tax on petroleum products, which took effect in July 2025. RRA officials said further engagements would be held to clarify the policy and address taxpayer concerns.
The ICPAR Tax Convention continues to provide a platform for direct engagement between taxpayers and policymakers.
ICPAR Chief Executive Officer Amin Miramago noted that while tax laws establish the framework, competence, ethics, and audit build trust, and trust remains central to a credible economy.
The convention will continue over the next two days, with further discussions expected on tax reforms, digital taxation, VAT implementation, and professional capacity building.
