The Fiji Revenue and Customs Services (FRCS) commemorated the National Tax Day in Suva yesterday to raise public awareness on the vital role taxation plays in sustaining the local economy and advancing national development.
In his address at the event at the Civic Center, FRCS chief executive officer Udit Singh said taxation is the backbone of the country’s progress that enabled Government to deliver essential public services, stimulate economic growth, and maintain social stability across Fiji.
He said the impact of the taxes paid was far reaching because it funded critical services and programs such as poverty alleviation, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, border protection, and law enforcement.
He said those investments were essential to improving the quality of life of our people, strengthening economic resilience, and ensuring the country was prepared to respond effectively to emergencies and future challenges.
“The theme (Tax power: Fuelling Fiji’s future, building our better tomorrow) highlights that taxation is not
merely a legal requirement, but a powerful tool for national transformation.
When taxes are paid voluntarily and used responsibly, they fuel development,
strengthen public institutions, and create opportunities for inclusive and
sustainable growth,” Mr Singh said.
He said it inspired compliance by connecting tax contributions directly to outcomes that mattered to every Fijian.
“It reinforces the idea that every compliant taxpayer, whether an individual or a business, plays an active role in shaping Fiji’s future. By emphasising our future and our better tomorrow.”
He said the theme fostered a sense of ownership, pride, and shared responsibility, encouraging citizens not to see compliance as a burden but as a meaningful investment in the nation’s progress.
Mr Singh said it also spoke to trust and accountability “because when taxpayers understand how their contributions are used to deliver services and strengthen the country, confidence in the tax system grows”.
He said that trust was the cornerstone of voluntary compliance, empowering Government to plan effectively and invest with certainty in Fiji’s long–term priorities.
FRCS staff pose for a picture with guests, partners, and stakeholders during the National Tax Day celebration at the Civic Center in Suva, yesterday. Picture: KARISHMA KUMARI
