The Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) has collaborated with the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) to conduct two successful Budget Briefing sessions aimed at tourism operators in Suva and Nadi. These sessions provided an essential platform for operators to gain insights into taxation matters and compliance obligations, particularly focusing on the upcoming implementation of the Value-Added Tax Monitoring System (VATMS). The initiative is vital in keeping the tourism sector informed and compliant with national fiscal regulations.
Both briefing sessions featured panels that included FRCS Chief Executive Udit Singh and other senior officials, along with representatives from Grant Thornton Fiji. FHTA CEO Fantasha Lockington was also present, emphasizing the significance of the collaboration between the FHTA and FRCS in supporting local tourism operators. The sessions encouraged an open dialogue where operators could raise questions and receive direct guidance from FRCS and advisory partners, fostering an environment of shared knowledge.
Lockington remarked that such collaborations underscore the commitment to assisting tourism operators. She expressed that clear communication and practical solutions are crucial for members navigating the complexities of taxation while they continue to provide exceptional experiences to visitors. Lockington highlighted the importance of partnership in ensuring operators remain compliant, which ultimately benefits the overall tourism experience in Fiji.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts within Fiji’s economic framework to enhance compliance and transparency through the VATMS, which aims to boost tax efficiency. Previous discussions have shown that engaging stakeholders through forums and briefings is a proactive measure for improving tax compliance and fostering a thriving business environment.
In light of these developments, FHTA’s initiatives reflect a positive trajectory for Fiji’s tourism sector. By empowering operators with knowledge and the tools necessary to navigate ongoing regulatory changes, the sector is poised to adapt effectively and continue its vital role in Fiji’s economic recovery and growth. Such collaborative efforts echo a hopeful vision for the future, as they promise both regulatory clarity and sustained market activity in the tourism industry.
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