DODOMA, June 17 -- WHENEVER a new national budget is announced, the first question from citizens and businesses is simple: ‘How much more in taxes will we have to pay? In my economic analysis, the 2026/27 national budget estimates presents a notable approach.

Instead of mainly raising tax rates, it focuses on expanding the tax base, digitissing transactions, formalising businesses and minimising tax leakages.

It also implements targeted increases in fees, levies and excise duties, while providing tax relief in essential sectors crucial for industrial development, youth employment and investment.

Hence, the real question is not whether Tanzanians will pay higher taxes, but rather who will pay more, who will pay less, and how the g...