The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has joined forces with the Ministry of Finance to establish a Tax Compliance Taskforce aimed at combating tax evasion and avoidance, while enhancing tax compliance throughout Fiji. The initiative is led by FRCS Board Member and expert Chartered Accountant Nitin Gandhi.

This Taskforce is designed to bolster tax compliance and improve revenue collection by implementing rigorous enforcement and collaborating with relevant agencies and businesses. Key objectives include reviewing and enhancing existing legislation, re-evaluating current investigative frameworks for undisclosed income, working with other agencies to tackle tax evasion and financial crimes, utilizing evidence-based information for investigations, instituting protective measures for revenue, and upholding strict data privacy protocols.

Members of the Taskforce include notable figures such as former FRCS CEO Jitoko Tikolevu, former acting Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu, anti-corruption expert Avaneesh Anand Raman, and risk management expert Pramesh Sharma. The Taskforce has been appointed for an initial term of 12 months and is expected to ensure accurate tax collection through established FRCS processes.

FRCS CEO Udit Singh emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating that the Taskforce will work alongside various authorities, including the Commissioner of Tax, the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FFIU), the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), the Fiji Police Force, and the Director of Public Prosecutions Office. There are also plans for collaboration with international partners such as Australia and New Zealand.

A structured framework for the Taskforce is currently under development, which will include operational guidelines and a memorandum of understanding with other enforcement entities.

This initiative not only highlights Fiji’s commitment to improving its tax system but also reflects an optimistic move towards greater transparency and fairness in the fiscal landscape. By tackling tax evasion head-on, the Taskforce aims to foster a stronger economy and ensure that public resources are utilized effectively for the benefit of all citizens.