The rollout of Benin’s online tax services in Parakou, Comè, and Lokossa starting September 21, 2026, has ignited a public debate over its impact on local businesses and taxpayers. As the country accelerates its digital tax revolution, the move is sparking divided opinions about its readiness, practicality, and long-term consequences.

Local businesses grapple with digital tax transition

Small and medium enterprises in Benin’s northern, coastal, and central regions are now faced with a new fiscal reality. The General Directorate of Taxes (DGI) is expanding its e-services platform to cover taxpayers in Parakou, Comè, and Lokossa under a phased rollout beginning September 21, 2026. This initiative promises online access to tax documents such as payment receipts and compliance certificates—but not without raising concerns among local business owners about technical hurdles and digital literacy.

What the new tax platform offers

The DGI’s digital platform will enable taxpayers to fulfill core tax obligations—including declarations and payments—entirely online. For the first time, beneficiaries in these three cities can generate digital tax receipts and compliance certificates without visiting physical tax offices. The stated goal is to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and streamline tax administration across Benin. However, skepticism persists about whether infrastructure and user support are adequate.

Public reactions: hope and hesitation collide

The announcement has elicited a spectrum of responses. Some stakeholders praise the move as a necessary step toward modernization, highlighting the convenience of avoiding in-person visits. Others question the timing and accessibility of the platform, particularly for small business owners in areas with limited internet connectivity or digital skills.

In Parakou, local chamber of commerce leaders have called for targeted training sessions to prepare business owners. Meanwhile, tax consultants in Comè are cautiously optimistic but emphasize the need for robust customer support to address potential glitches during the transition period.

What comes next after the rollout?

On September 21, 2026, Parakou will become the first city to transition fully to online tax services. Comè will follow on September 28, and Lokossa on October 5. The DGI has pledged sensitization and training programs to support taxpayers, though details on implementation remain scarce. As the country embarks on this digital fiscal overhaul, all eyes will be on how the new system performs and whether it meets the diverse needs of businesses across Benin’s regions.

Key takeaways

• The DGI’s e-services platform will be rolled out in three phases beginning September 21, 2026.
• Taxpayers can now access digital tax receipts and compliance certificates online.
• Local business groups express both optimism and concerns over digital readiness and infrastructure.
• Training and support will be critical to ensuring a smooth transition.

By Mariama Hamani — Grand reporter