Fiji has taken a significant step towards enhancing its stance on tax transparency and international cooperation by signing the Multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters (MAAC). This landmark event occurred during a ceremony held in Paris on January 15, 2026, where Esrom Immanuel, the Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, officially signed the convention, making Fiji the 152nd jurisdiction to join this important international agreement.
The MAAC is widely recognized as the most comprehensive multilateral instrument for tax cooperation in the world. It facilitates the exchange of tax information among jurisdictions, whether on request, spontaneously, or automatically. Moreover, it allows for simultaneous tax inspections and provides assistance in the recovery of taxes owed.
Following the signing, Fiji will initiate the necessary domestic procedures to officially become a party to the MAAC. Once these processes are finalized, the country will benefit from a unified legal framework for information exchange with all other participating jurisdictions, which include prominent global financial centers.
In tandem with joining the MAAC, Fiji is also set to implement the Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information (AEOI). This initiative will be supported by essential legislative reforms and assessments to ensure confidentiality.
Udit Singh, Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, emphasized that joining the MAAC represents a major milestone for the nation. He expressed that this step provides a solid legal foundation for implementing AEOI and facilitating the Exchange of Information on Request. This move is crucial in Fiji’s effort to combat tax evasion and avoidance effectively.
Singh reaffirmed Fiji’s dedication to adhering to international tax standards and engaging in global cooperation. He highlighted that this achievement is a vital step toward removing Fiji from the EU blacklist, a move that could enhance the country’s international reputation.
Furthermore, Singh indicated that the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service would collaborate closely with the Global Forum Secretariat and other international partners to ensure the effective implementation of standards that would bolster tax compliance and enhance Fiji’s revenue collection.
Fiji’s commitment to tax transparency and fairness in the international tax system is not only commendable but also positions the country favorably on the global stage, fostering trust and cooperation among nations.
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