The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, has launched a Tax Compliance Taskforce aimed at tackling tax evasion and avoidance while reinforcing tax compliance across the nation. Chaired by Nitin Gandhi, a prominent Chartered Accountant and member of the FRCS Board, the taskforce seeks to bolster revenue collection through stringent enforcement measures and collaborative efforts with both agencies and businesses.
The Taskforce’s primary objectives include reviewing and suggesting enhancements to existing legislation and procedures, reassessing current frameworks for investigating and prosecuting undisclosed income and financial non-compliance, and fostering collaboration with key agencies to combat tax evasion and financial crimes. Additionally, the Taskforce plans to utilize evidence-based data from various sources to support its investigations and implement measures that protect revenue while ensuring adherence to legal standards. Strict data privacy and security protocols will also be maintained.
The Taskforce is composed of notable professionals, including former FRCS CEO Jitoko Tikolevu, former acting Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu, anti-corruption specialist Avaneesh Anand Raman, and risk and financial management expert Pramesh Sharma. Appointed for an initial 12-month term, the Taskforce is set to take effective measures to ensure accurate tax collection in cooperation with the FRCS.
FRCS CEO Udit Singh emphasized that the Taskforce will work alongside existing roles, particularly that of the Commissioner of Tax under the FRCS Act, and will coordinate with a number of agencies such as the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FFIU), Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), and the Fiji Police. Engagement with international partners, including Australia and New Zealand, is also on the agenda.
A framework for the Taskforce is currently being devised to establish a clear structure and operational guidelines, with plans for a memorandum of understanding with other enforcement agencies in the near future. This initiative aligns with Fiji’s broader goal of fostering a transparent and compliant tax system which can bolster public confidence and resource allocation for national development.
Overall, the establishment of the Tax Compliance Taskforce demonstrates Fiji’s commitment to combating financial misconduct and promoting a culture of compliance, which can ultimately lead to a more robust economy and better public services for its citizens.
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