Fiji Government Cracks Down on Tax Evasion Laws

In a bid to promote economic growth and development, the Fiji government has been offering various incentives to businesses and individuals, including tax and customs relief. However, despite these efforts, many have been found to be evading taxes and customs duties through illegal means.

Recent Crackdowns on Tax Evasion

Recently, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) charged an importer with paying millions of dollars in taxes and penalties after a landmark case involving trade-based money laundering. The modus operandi used in this case included:

• Mis-invoicing
• Undervaluing or overvaluing goods
• Double invoicing

Investigations and Recoveries

The FRCS has also investigated five cases of tax evasion and customs duty fraud in the 2016-2017 financial year, resulting in the recovery of over $16 million in duties and penalties. These investigations have also led to the detection of domestic tax evasion and the prosecution of those involved.

Reporting Tax and Customs Evasion

The government is urging members of the public to report any customs or tax evasions, as well as unprofessional conduct, by:

• Emailing the Chief Executive Officer at ceo@frcs.org.fj
• Sending a letter
• Calling the Revenue and Customs Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Visvanath Das, on 9907740 or the Chief Ethical Standards Officer, Mr. Rajas Swamy, on 9980489

Commitment to Fairness and Consistency

The FRCS is committed to ensuring fairness and consistency in the application of tax and customs laws, and is working to create a level playing field for all taxpayers.