The Office burundais des recettes (OBR) introduced a new digital system for taxpayers to consult customs duty amounts on their goods on 15 October 2026. Officials presented the platform during a meeting held in Gitega. Attendees at the event included taxpayers, customs brokers, and journalists. This gathering on 15 October 2026 served as the primary venue for the agency to demonstrate the technical capabilities of the new system. The digital tool aims to provide clarity regarding the financial obligations associated with imported items. This initiative represents a shift in how the OBR manages information for those operating within the customs sector. The agency expects the system to improve the accessibility of duty information for all registered users. By centralizing this data, the OBR intends to streamline communications between the authority and the public.
Accessing New Digital Services
Taxpayers can access the new digital service by visiting the official Office burundais des recettes website at www.Obr.bi. This online portal allows users to verify customs duty amounts directly, removing the need for manual inquiries at physical agency offices. The implementation of this service via the official OBR website at www.Obr.bi marks a significant step in the agency’s ongoing digital transformation. Georges Bizimana, the commissaire général adjoint de l'OBR, addressed the gathering in Gitega to clarify the intent behind the digital transition. He stated, "L'objectif principal était d'expliquer aux contribuables le fonctionnement de ce service." His address emphasized the importance of user adoption for the success of the new digital infrastructure.
President Evariste Ndayishimiye previously issued a request for the OBR to facilitate taxpayer procedures while simultaneously increasing transparency within the customs sector. This directive from President Evariste Ndayishimiye specifically tasked the agency with finding ways to simplify interactions for those importing goods. His directive aimed to reduce instances of fraud by ensuring that financial obligations are clear and easily verifiable for all registered participants. By moving these verification processes to a digital platform, the agency intends to align its operations with these administrative goals. The service remains available for use by all taxpayers who require information regarding their imported goods. The OBR anticipates that the increased transparency will foster greater trust and compliance among taxpayers, customs brokers, and the broader business community. As the platform matures, the agency plans to continue monitoring its usage to ensure it meets the requirements set forth by the administration. The transition to this digital verification process reflects the broader commitment to modernizing the customs sector in Burundi, ensuring that duty calculations are standardized and accessible to every registered user who utilizes the portal.