Tax-related offenses pose a significant threat to revenue generation, erode public confidence in financial and legal systems, and are often associated with more severe criminal activities. In light of this, the Ministry of Finance has collaborated with the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) to establish a Tax Compliance Taskforce. This five-member team is dedicated to the prevention, detection, and remediation of tax evasion and avoidance, with the overarching goal of enhancing tax compliance in Fiji.
According to a statement from FRCS, plans are underway to develop a structured framework for the Taskforce, which will include established guidelines for operation. In the upcoming months, the Taskforce will formalize cooperation through a memorandum of understanding with various enforcement agencies.
The Taskforce has several critical objectives: to improve compliancy with tax laws, prevent tax evasion, and increase revenue collection through coordinated enforcement efforts with businesses and relevant bodies. The inaugural meeting of the Taskforce was held recently, with Nitin Gandhi, a member of the FRCS board and a chartered accountant, serving as its chair. Additional members include Jitoko Tikolevu, a former FRCS CEO; Rusiate Tudravu, a former acting Commissioner of Police; Avaneesh Anand Raman, an anti-corruption and governance specialist; and Pramesh Sharma, an expert in risk and financial management.
This initiative is set to function for an initial 12-month period and will work alongside the Commissioner of Tax under the FRCS Act, the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit, the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), the Fiji Police Force, and the Director of Public Prosecutions Office. The Taskforce will also engage with international partners from Australia and New Zealand.
Among its responsibilities, the Taskforce will review and suggest improvements to current laws and processes, redevelop frameworks for investigating non-compliance, collaborate with key agencies on tax evasion issues, use evidence-based approaches for investigations, protect revenue, and uphold data privacy standards.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Professor Biman Prasad praised the formation of the Taskforce, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency collaboration.
This proactive approach demonstrates Fiji’s commitment to improving tax compliance and integrity within its financial systems. By taking decisive action against tax evasion, the country is not only working to secure vital revenue but is also fostering a stronger community trust in its economic frameworks.
In summary, the government’s establishment of the Tax Compliance Taskforce marks a significant step toward enhancing tax accountability and preventing financial misconduct in Fiji. Through collective efforts and a structured approach, this initiative promises to instill greater confidence in the integrity of the taxation system and catalyze positive changes in the nation’s financial landscape.
Leave a comment