The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) on Monday closed down Mike Appel and Gatto Limited Company across the country for failing to pay tax amounting to MK1.2 billion.

MRA Deputy Director for Corporate Affairs Steven Kapoloma confirmed of the development in an interview with the press.

According to Kapoloma, the closure was in line with was in line with Section 107 (3) of the Taxation Act and Section 40 (2) of the Value Added Tax (VAT) Act.

“This action comes about after all other efforts to have the outstanding taxes paid were duly exhausted,” explained Kapoloma.

The company through a hired private practicing lawyer, Frank Mbeta obtained a court order stopping the tax-collector from effecting its Distrait Order but it was too late.

Mike Appeal and Gatto are official dealers and distributors of General Motors car brands which include Chevrolet, GMC, Hummer, Opel and Vauxhall. The company is also a distributor of Isuzu motor vehicles and trucks.