News Desk
MALE, Maldives — The Majlis is set to convene a crucial hearing on Tuesday to address the country’s mounting issue of uncollected government dues, totaling over MVR 15.4 billion. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will focus on the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority’s (MIRA) report detailing the extensive amounts in unpaid taxes and fees, which have accumulated as of the end of May.
Deputy Speaker of the Majlis, Ahmed Nazim, emphasized the critical nature of this issue, stating, “In Tuesday’s hearing, PAC will hear from MIRA CG regarding the uncollected revenue. As of the end of May, the uncollected amount stands at RF 15,445,526,584.29. There are no two ways about it; we have to collect the dues. And we will get to the bottom of this.”
The PAC’s hearing is anticipated to be a significant event, with key stakeholders invited to provide insight and propose solutions. The government’s struggle to collect dues has raised concerns about the country’s fiscal stability, particularly as it grapples with high government expenses and the challenges of repaying loans.
MIRA’s report highlights a wide range of uncollected dues, including taxes from businesses, corporate income, and various fees.
The largest amounts owed come from Goods and Services Tax (GST), Business Profit Tax, and Corporate Income Tax, which collectively contribute to the significant total. The report also notes substantial fines and interest charges, further compounding the issue.
The hearing is expected to scrutinize MIRA’s collection processes and the government’s broader fiscal policies. The PAC aims to understand the root causes behind the failure to collect these significant amounts and explore potential measures to improve enforcement and compliance.
Nazim’s remarks underscore a broader concern within the government and among the public about the economic future of the country. “We are committed to ensuring that these dues are collected,” he asserted. “It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about accountability and ensuring that everyone contributes their fair share to the nation’s economy.”
The hearing’s outcome could have far-reaching implications for the country’s fiscal policy and economic health. With the Maldivian economy heavily reliant on tourism, the efficient collection of taxes and fees is crucial to maintaining financial stability and funding public services.
As the nation awaits the PAC’s findings, there is a growing consensus that more robust mechanisms are needed to prevent such significant losses in government revenue. The hearing is not just an opportunity to address past shortcomings but also a chance to lay the groundwork for a more resilient and accountable economic system.
