FRCS and Partner Agencies Sign Landmark MOU to Strengthen Tax Crime Enforcement

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), together with key partner agencies of the Tax Crimes Taskforce, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU, a significant milestone in formalizing inter-agency collaboration to combat tax crime and financial misconduct in Fiji.

 

The Tax Crimes Taskforce is a multi-agency initiative designed to strengthen enforcement against serious tax evasion and financial crimes, while promoting integrity and fairness within Fiji’s tax system. Since its inception, the Taskforce has achieved notable progress, including the referral of several high-profile cases to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for prosecution.

 

The signing ceremony was officiated by the Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, Hon. Esrom Immanuel, who emphasized the MOU as a critical step in national efforts to enhance compliance, transparency, and safeguard the integrity of Fiji’s financial and revenue systems.

 

Hon. Immanuel reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to equipping institutions to detect, deter, and disrupt financial crimes, tax evasion, and other illicit activities that undermine the economy and public trust.

 

“This multi-agency approach reflects our understanding that no single institution can address these challenges in isolation. The complexity and transnational nature of financial crimes demand a coordinated response. One that leverages the strengths, expertise, and intelligence of all relevant stakeholders,” he stated.

 

In addition to FRCS, the Taskforce comprises the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Immigration, Land Transport Authority (LTA), FICAC, Fiji Police Force, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FFIU).

 

Taskforce Chair Mr. Nitin Gandhi highlighted the progress made since inception, including intelligence sharing, relationship building, and enforcement enhancements.

 

“Several significant cases have been formally referred to FICAC for prosecution. The Taskforce also utilizes the whistleblower avenue to encourage confidential reporting and protect those who come forward in the interest of justice. Confidentiality remains a cornerstone of this work,” Mr. Gandhi said.

 

FRCS CEO Mr. Udit Singh expressed gratitude to all partner agencies for their commitment.

 

“Your dedication reflects the strength of our national institutions and the shared responsibility we hold in safeguarding Fiji’s economic integrity. Through this collaboration, we aim to improve intelligence sharing, streamline investigations, and ensure timely prosecution of tax-related offences. This initiative will not only help recover lost revenue but also serve as a deterrent to future tax crimes, reinforcing public trust in our systems,” he stated.

Last Updated - April 3, 2026