The General Directorate of Taxes (DGI) is set to roll out its e-services platform to partner taxpayers of the Small Business Tax Centers (CIPE) in Parakou, Comè and Lokossa, with a phased launch beginning 21 September 2026. The move has triggered immediate reactions from taxpayers and observers, who see it as both a welcome modernization and a test of readiness.

What the rollout entails for taxpayers

Under the measure, taxpayers will be able to obtain tax documents online, including payment receipts and tax compliance certificates. The DGI plans awareness and training sessions to help affected taxpayers navigate the platform. The extension targets partner taxpayers under the three CIPEs and broadens access to the dematerialized tax services already offered by the administration. For many, this represents a significant shift in how they interact with the tax office.

A three-step calendar and mixed reactions

The schedule sets three key dates: 21 September in Parakou, 28 September in Comè, and 5 October in Lokossa. At each stage, concerned taxpayers will be able to access online services via the DGI’s e-services platform. Available procedures include filing obligations, payments, and access to certain tax certificates. The administration’s stated goal is to reduce trips to physical counters and ease the administrative burden. While some taxpayers welcome the convenience, others express concerns about digital literacy and internet access, particularly in smaller towns.

Outlook: a gradual digital transition

This extension is part of Benin’s progressive dematerialization of tax procedures. For the partner taxpayers involved, the first operational deadline is 21 September 2026 in Parakou, followed by Comè a week later, then Lokossa on 5 October. As the rollout unfolds, the focus will be on how smoothly taxpayers adapt and whether the promised support measures materialize. The coming weeks will reveal whether the digital shift lives up to its promise or faces pushback.