Tax calculators

Tanzania VAT calculator: calculate VAT, totals, and withholding

Tanzania VAT calculator
Compute VAT for Mainland (18%) or Zanzibar (15%) with inclusive/exclusive pricing and withholding.
Calculate VAT and total from a net amount.
Results
Base amount0,00 TZS
VAT0,00 TZS
Total0,00 TZS
Rate18 %
Formula
If VAT-exclusive: VAT = A × r; Total = A + VAT. If VAT-inclusive: Base = A ÷ (1 + r); VAT = A − Base. Withholding: goods 3% or services 6% of base. Import VAT base = customs value + duty + other import taxes/fees (excluding VAT).

Examples

Mainland standard sale (18%)
Amount TZS 1,000,000 → VAT 180,000; total 1,180,000.
VAT-inclusive with withholding (services)
Amount TZS 590,000 (inc VAT) → base 500,000; VAT 90,000; withheld 30,000; net 560,000.
This calculator estimates Tanzania VAT for domestic sales, imports, exports (0%), and withholding-agent transactions. It’s for business owners, freelancers, buyers, and accountants who want a fast VAT breakdown. You’ll need the amount, whether it’s VAT-inclusive or exclusive, Mainland vs Zanzibar, and whether the buyer is a withholding agent. Checked/verified: 29 Jan 2026 (Europe/Madrid). Rates and key rules from TRA + VAT Act.

FAQs

What is the standard VAT rate in Tanzania Mainland?

18% for taxable supplies and imports.

What’s the VAT rate in Zanzibar?

15% for taxable supplies and imports, per the TRA guide.

Are exports charged VAT in Tanzania?

Exports are generally zero-rated (0%) when conditions are met.

How do I extract VAT from a VAT-inclusive price?

Divide total by (1 + rate) to get the base, then subtract to get VAT.

When does the 16% VAT rate apply in Mainland?

When paid by an individual not VAT-registered via an approved e-payment system, per TRA guidance.

What is VAT withholding and how much is withheld?

Mainland withholding agents withhold 3% on goods or 6% on services and remit to TRA.

If VAT is withheld, do I still calculate VAT at 18%?

Yes—VAT is computed normally; withholding affects cash paid to the supplier.

How is VAT calculated on imported goods?

VAT base is customs value plus duty and other import taxes/fees (excluding VAT).

When is VAT payment/return due?

TRA guidance indicates VAT returns/payment are due by the 20th day of the following month.

Note: This calculator provides an estimate. Rates can vary by region and change over time. It is not tax advice.

See more in calculators for Tanzania.

Sources

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