The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has reported a total revenue collection of $2.281 billion between August 2024 and March 2025, achieving 69% of its targeted goal of $3.298 billion. FRCS Chair Malakai Naiyaga highlighted that this figure exceeds last year’s cumulative collection of $1.967 billion by $138.9 million, which had previously fallen short of forecasts by $82.8 million.
Naiyaga attributed this growth to consistent monthly revenue increases, which have maintained a favorable variance against monthly forecasts. Key contributors to this revenue growth include significant collections from tax categories such as Value Added Tax (VAT), which has contributed $1 billion (45% of total collections), followed by income taxes at $670 million (29%), trade taxes at $391.8 million (17%), and other taxes and levies making up $181.3 million (8%).
The uptick in revenue was closely linked to robust performances in vital sectors such as tourism and resource-based industries, fostering broader economic growth. Naiyaga emphasized the essential role of taxes paid by citizens in funding public services, supporting economic development, and ensuring social stability. These revenues are crucial for various programs, including poverty reduction, infrastructure development, healthcare, and education.
In recognition of taxation’s importance, FRCS has designated May 8th as a day to raise awareness about its significance, with this year’s theme focusing on “Empowering Sustainable Growth through Fair and Collaborative Taxation.”
The evidence of increasing revenue collection provides a hopeful indication of Fiji’s economic recovery, particularly in the tourism sector, amid a global landscape still grappling with uncertainty. As tax compliance and collection strategies continue to evolve, there is a constructive outlook for sustainable economic growth and enhanced public service funding in Fiji.
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