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 enhancing overall tax compliance in Fiji. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to improving revenue collection and reinforcing the integrity of the tax system.
The Taskforce, chaired by respected Chartered Accountant Nitin Gandhi, will focus on several key objectives. These include reviewing and suggesting enhancements to current legislation and procedures, creating frameworks for investigating and prosecuting financial non-compliance, and collaborating with various agencies to combat tax evasion and related financial crimes.
This initiative is supported by a diverse team comprised of experts in fields like anti-corruption, governance, risk management, and financial management. Among the notable members are former FRCS CEO Jitoko Tikolevu and former acting Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu. The Taskforce is appointed for an initial 12-month period, during which it will adopt measures to ensure accurate tax collection within the established frameworks of the FRCS.
According to Udit Singh, the FRCS CEO, the Taskforce will work in conjunction with various entities, including the Commissioner of Tax, the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit, the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, and the Fiji Police Force, as well as international counterparts from Australia and New Zealand.
To streamline its operations, a comprehensive framework will be developed, and a memorandum of understanding with other enforcement bodies is expected in the near future.
This initiative represents a significant step toward bolstering Fiji’s economic integrity and ensuring that all citizens contribute fairly to the nation’s revenue. By enhancing collaborative efforts and adopting rigorous compliance measures, the Tax Compliance Taskforce heralds a more transparent and sustainable financial future for Fiji.
In a time when nations around the world are striving for greater financial accountability, Fiji’s proactive approach may serve as an example to others in the region on how to effectively address tax compliance challenges.
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