77 companies receive renewed Gold Card and Authorised Economic Operator memberships

77 companies who comply well with tax have been rewarded as they received their renewed Gold Card and Authorised Economic Operator memberships.

Fiji Revenue and Customs Service Chief Executive Officer Udit Singh says the gold card service was launched in 2012 to reward tax and customs compliance companies with priority services.

He says starting with 34 members, their numbers have grown, and today, it stands at 77.

Singh says while some members were removed for non-compliance, they remain committed to upholding high standards.

He adds gold card members contribute 57 percent of FRCS revenues, with collections rising from $882 million in 2021 to $1.67 billion last year.

The CEO says gold card members receive a range of benefits, including priority tax and customs services, expedited clearances, duty-free allowances and priority processing at various government agencies.

He says they have partnered with Fiji Immigration Department, Airports Fiji Limited, Biosecurity Authority of Fiji, LTA and Fiji Airways to enhance these privileges.

Singh says in 2018, FRCS introduced the Authorised Economic Operator Programme, accrediting 23 members, some of whom are also gold card holders.

He adds the benefits include the removal of bond and bank guarantees, deferred payment options and waiver of outdoor inspection fees.

The CEO says both gold card and Authorised Economic Operator Programme members enjoy priority services across multiple government agencies as this programme recognises and rewards businesses that fulfil their civic duty, ensuring tax contributions support public services, infrastructure, education and economic growth.

While officiating at the celebration, Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad says the Gold Card and AEO programs are more than just recognition — they are part of a larger vision to celebrate and reward businesses that have contributed their fair share to the nation's growth.

He says paying taxes is not only a civic duty but an essential pillar of our nation's progress.

Professor Prasad says taxes fund public services — everything from education, healthcare, and social welfare, to infrastructure such as roads, ports, and clean water systems.

He adds they also support local government services, including law enforcement, fire departments and public parks.

The Acting Prime Minister says without taxes, the government cannot function or provide the vital services that we all rely on.

He adds that taxes are at the heart of national development and governance.