By: Aminata Sesay
The Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture, Hon. Salieu Osman Sesay, has raised new concerns over the rising trend of illegal crude palm oil exports, calling on Parliament to act decisively to protect local industries and safeguard government revenue.
Addressing the House, Hon. Sesay condemned what he described as the indiscriminate exploitation of the country’s agricultural sector, particularly through the use of porous borders by dealers seeking to evade taxes. He noted that these actions undermine legitimate businesses that comply with tax obligations and contribute to national development.
According to the Chairman, such illicit practices weaken the competitiveness of emerging industries, stressing that the introduction of specific taxes is necessary to provide protection and ensure a fair-trading environment.
Hon. Sesay therefore formally moved that Parliament approve a 35% tax on crude palm oil, classified under HS Code 1511.1, for inclusion in the 2026 Finance Act. During the presentation of the motion, the Speaker sought clarification on whether proper notice had been served. Hon. Sesay confirmed that the official notice would be submitted, adding that the motion will return to the House for debate tomorrow.
The Majority Leader welcomed the notice and highlighted the need to address the country’s revenue shortfall. He reported that Sierra Leone is currently at 9.8% of projected revenue collection, with actual revenue accounting for only 2.1% of the community’s total, recently increasing to 2.2%. He emphasized that additional measures including the proposed 1.5% revenue increment are necessary to close the fiscal gap before year-end.
Expressing full support for the Chairman’s proposal, the Majority Leader underscored its importance in strengthening domestic revenue mobilization as Parliament works toward finalizing the Finance Act. He further urged that the Act be completed and signed before the Assembly concludes its current session.
The House now awaits the formal written notice ahead of debate on the proposed tax measure.