Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Evelyn N
Published on 2024-04-06 13:48:58
In the bustling streets of Douala, Cameroon, where entrepreneurship is thriving, there is a growing concern emerging. Small business owners, especially women, are feeling the impact of steep tax increases that threaten to undo years of hard work and resilience.
“The tax burden in Cameroon is becoming unbearable, putting many of us at risk of resorting to begging on the streets just to survive,” expresses one entrepreneur who prefers to remain anonymous.
The recent tax revisions implemented by local authorities, particularly the Dla 2 council, have become the focal point of the issue. Previously manageable tax rates have soared, leaving business owners struggling with a heavy financial burden.
“It is disheartening to see how taxes can undermine the efforts of hardworking individuals,” shares another entrepreneur, echoing the sentiments of many in similar positions.
Fees that were once considered reasonable, such as the Impôt libératoire and Tax hygiène, have seen a notable increase. The OTVP fees, originally intended for market vendors, have now been extended to include shop owners as well.
“The OTVP used to charge 36,000 frs per year for 1m2 of space, but now they are demanding much higher amounts even for a small area,” laments a frustrated business owner.
However, what is particularly concerning is the recent decision by the Dla 2 council to impose a standard OTVP fee of 180,000frs for all businesses, regardless of their size or location.
“Even small-scale vendors like myself, operating in residential areas, are expected to bear this heavy burden,” expresses one entrepreneur, reflecting the feelings of many who feel unfairly targeted.
There are speculations about potential plans by local authorities to enforce stricter regulations on the display of merchandise outside shops. This would further exacerbate the financial challenges faced by struggling entrepreneurs.
“In Dla 2 alone, the total tax bill amounts to a significant 264,000frs,” shares one entrepreneur, raising concerns about the sustainability of businesses amidst this significant financial pressure.
Amidst the struggles of rising taxes, there is a growing demand for the mayor of Dla 2 to reconsider these burdensome actions and recognize the hardships faced by small businesses.
“It is essential for the mayor of Dla 2 to acknowledge the challenges encountered by small businesses and reassess the tax measures,” emphasizes a concerned citizen, also indirectly affected by the tax hikes.
Undoubtedly, as Cameroonians navigate this formidable obstacle to their entrepreneurial pursuits, there is a persistent hope that policymakers will carefully address their pleas for assistance and protect the dream of achieving prosperity from slipping away.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
