Barran Press
MARIB, Yemen — On January 1, 2025, Abdu Shamlan, the director of the Tax Authority branch in Marib, confirmed that there would be no reversal on the decision to raise the tax on qat entering the province. This statement comes in response to a strike initiated by qat suppliers protesting the increase in tax from 300 rials to 500 rials per kilogram.
In an interview with "Barran Press," Shamlan emphasized, "There will be no retreat from the decision, and it will be enforced as directed by higher authorities to align with prevailing market prices." He asserted that the tax increase would ultimately benefit citizens and foster development in the province.
The tax director explained that the objective of the increase is to enhance state revenues, which would fund essential development projects, including schools, roads, and hospitals. He dismissed rumors alleging that the tax had risen to 1,400 rials per kilogram, clarifying that the previous rate was 300 rials and the new rate represents an increase of only 200 rials.
Shamlan also highlighted that neighboring provinces impose taxes ranging from 800 to 1,000 rials per kilogram of qat. He reassured the public that qat supplies would resume as usual on Thursday and called on relevant government and security bodies to monitor compliance and address tax evasion.