The Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma plans to submit a request to the Fijian Government seeking tax exemptions for non-government organizations (NGOs), including churches. Lako Yani Management Pte Limited, which oversees the development of church properties, reported a profit of $2.9 million for the 2023 financial year, marking a $1.7 million rise from the previous year’s net profit of $1.2 million.
However, the church experienced a drop in overall income, attributed to reduced earnings from the Navuso Agricultural Technical School. Ms. Qoro emphasized that the Methodist Church does not aim to generate profit but rather focuses on serving its members and fulfilling its mission. She noted that any profits generated are reinvested into church activities.
In 2016, changes in tax law mandated that charitable organizations, including churches, are taxed on their net income from sources like investments and rent, under the premise that such income competes with for-profit entities. The Fiscal Review Committee expressed concerns last year, stating that taxing charities restricts their available funds, which are crucial during times of high need. They also underscored that this policy discourages NGOs from making investments that could provide reliable funding in the long term.