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 avoidance while enhancing overall tax compliance within the nation. This initiative seeks to secure a more efficient tax system, thereby bolstering Fiji’s revenue collection capabilities.
The Taskforce is led by Nitin Gandhi, a skilled Chartered Accountant and a member of the FRCS Board. It has set forth an ambitious agenda that includes reviewing and recommending enhancements to current tax legislation and processes. Additionally, the Taskforce will revamp methods for investigating and prosecuting instances of undisclosed income and financial non-compliance.
Collaboration is a cornerstone of the Taskforce’s approach; it will partner with various key agencies to combat evasion and financial crimes effectively. The emphasis on evidence-based information underscores the Taskforce’s commitment to backing its investigations with solid data. To maintain integrity, they will also enforce measures to protect revenue and uphold compliance with legal standards, ensuring strict adherence to data privacy and security protocols.
The Taskforce is comprised of notable professionals, including former FRCS CEO Jitoko Tikolevu, ex-acting Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu, anti-corruption expert Avaneesh Anand Raman, and financial management specialist Pramesh Sharma. Initially appointed for a 12-month term, the Taskforce aims to ensure accurate collection of taxes owed, leveraging FRCS’s comprehensive individual income information.
Udit Singh, CEO of FRCS, has clarified that the Taskforce will work alongside existing authorities, including the Commissioner of Tax, Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit, Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, the Fiji Police Force, and the Director of Public Prosecutions Office, as well as with international partners, notably Australia and New Zealand.
A framework defining the Taskforce’s objectives and operational guidelines is currently under development, along with plans for a memorandum of understanding with other enforcement agencies in the coming months.
In summary, this cooperative effort reflects a renewed commitment to tax compliance in Fiji, encouraging an environment that values transparency and diligence, ultimately leading to enhanced public trust and the efficacy of the nation’s tax system.
This initiative not only aims to discourage tax evasion but also seeks to promote responsible business practices in Fiji, which is a positive step towards creating a sustainable economic future for the country.
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