The Fijian government has issued a stern warning to tax evaders, asserting that efforts to avoid tax payments will ultimately result in capture by authorities. This statement came from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Prof Biman Prasad, during the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) Gold Card and Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) membership renewal celebrations held in Suva.
Prof Prasad addressed corporate taxpayers, acknowledging that while the majority are compliant, there remain instances of tax evasion. He emphasized that this behavior undermines fairness and trust within the system. “I understand that FRCS is strengthening its compliance efforts, and to those who think they can escape the system: you will be caught,” he stated firmly.
The Gold Card and AEO initiatives, which were initiated in 2012 and 2018 respectively, aim to incentivize timely tax payments. These programs have shown effectiveness, with FRCS reporting that members contributed significantly, accounting for 57 percent of the $1.67 billion in tax revenue collected in 2024.
Prof Prasad encouraged Fijians to view Gold Card recipients as models of civic responsibility, explaining that paying taxes is not merely a legal obligation but a crucial part of supporting national development. He pointed out that such contributions lead to improvements in vital areas like infrastructure, healthcare, and education, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.
Moreover, it is noteworthy that the Gold Card membership is inclusive, open not only to large corporations but also to small businesses and sole traders committed to compliance. This reflects a holistic approach to national progress, indicating that every entity has a role to play in the prosperity of Fiji.
To combat tax evasion robustly, FRCS has also established a tax crime task force targeting the shadow economy in Fiji, aiming to address the roots of tax evasion.
The holistic strategy pursued by the Fijian government is commendable and reflects a commitment to ensuring fiscal responsibility and fairness in the tax system. By underscoring the importance of tax contributions, the government fosters a culture of accountability, paving the way for sustainable national growth.
In summary, the government of Fiji is taking a strong stance against tax evasion through enhanced compliance measures, inclusive programs that encourage timely tax payments, and dedicated efforts to investigate the shadow economy. This multifaceted approach underscores the role of taxation in fostering national development and the collective responsibility of all citizens in contributing to their country’s progress.
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