Fiji Launches New Taskforce to Combat Tax Evasion and Boost Compliance

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, has launched a Tax Compliance Taskforce aimed at combating tax evasion and bolstering tax compliance across the nation. This initiative seeks not only to enhance revenue collection but also to establish a stronger regulatory framework for taxes in Fiji.

Under the leadership of Nitin Gandhi, a prominent Chartered Accountant and FRCS Board Member, the Taskforce will undertake a series of critical measures. These include reviewing existing tax legislation, redeveloping frameworks for investigating cases of undisclosed income, and enhancing collaboration with government agencies to tackle financial crimes. The Taskforce will leverage evidence-based insights from diverse sources to back its investigative efforts and will be committed to upholding revenue protection and compliance with legal standards.

The Taskforce comprises experienced members such as former FRCS CEO Jitoko Tikolevu and ex-acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, along with experts in anti-corruption and risk management. They have been appointed for a one-year term and are expected to ensure accurate collection of owed taxes.

Udit Singh, the CEO of FRCS, emphasized that the Taskforce’s function will complement the role of the Commissioner of Tax and work alongside other agencies, including the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit and the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption. Furthermore, it will establish international collaborations with agencies from Australia and New Zealand.

As part of its operational structure, a framework is currently being developed to define the guidelines under which the Taskforce will operate, including plans for memorandums of understanding with other enforcement bodies in the coming months.

This initiative heralds a promising step towards ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability in Fiji’s tax system, potentially leading to a more robust economy as compliance improves and evasion decreases. With such esteemed professionals leading the charge, there is hope for a more transparent and fair tax environment in the country.