Tax evasion poses significant threats to revenue collection, undermining trust in the legal and financial systems, and is often linked to other serious offenses. In response to this pressing issue, Fiji’s Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), has established a five-member Tax Compliance Taskforce. This initiative aims to enhance tax compliance, prevent potential evasion, and improve overall revenue collection in Fiji.
The taskforce, which convened for the first time recently, is chaired by Nitin Gandhi, a board member of FRCS and a chartered accountant. The team includes notable figures such as Jitoko Tikolevu, former FRCS CEO, Rusiate Tudravu, former acting Commissioner of Police, Avaneesh Anand Raman, an anti-corruption and governance expert, and Pramesh Sharma, a specialist in risk and financial management. This group is appointed for an initial term of 12 months, with a focus on developing a structured operational framework to facilitate their efforts in collaboration with various enforcement agencies.
Key responsibilities of the taskforce include reviewing and recommending improvements to current legislation, investigating and prosecuting undisclosed income cases, and employing evidence-based strategies in ongoing investigations. They will work closely with national agencies like the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit and the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, as well as international partners from Australia and New Zealand.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, expressed support for the establishment of this taskforce, encouraging all involved agencies to collaborate effectively.
This initiative signifies a proactive approach to tackling tax-related crimes in Fiji, promoting a stronger financial system while simultaneously fostering trust within the community. It reflects a commitment to ethical governance and transparency, which can ultimately lead to a more robust economy.
In summary, the formation of the Tax Compliance Taskforce in Fiji represents a concerted effort to enhance tax compliance, deter evasion, and protect revenue. By combining resources and expertise from various sectors, Fiji is taking significant steps toward improving its financial integrity and fostering public confidence in its systems.
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