Fiji revenue and customs get new tax platform thanks to Reading IT business

Reading-based implementation partner Invenio Business Solutions has helped Fiji Revenue and Customs Services (FRCS) launch a digital online system for Fiji’s taxpayers.

The New Tax Information System (NTIS) will enable access to 24x7 online services, reducing the need for taxpayers to visit FRCS offices. The system is expected to benefit 900,000 Fijian citizens and will also provide a platform to improve the ease of doing business in Fiji.

FRCS embarked on a national level change programme, with the support of the Fijian government, to modernise tax administration and enhance the taxpayer experience. The organisation needed to simplify legislations and improveprocesses to help increase taxpayer compliancy. Equally as important was the requirement for a business rules framework which could be easily adapted as laws continue to evolve. This multi-faceted digital transformation was not without its complexities.

To overcome challenges, Invenio and FRCS collaborated to examine the current IT landscape, assess the gaps and develop an approach aligned to the organisation’s long-term aspirations. As a result, FRCS is well on its way to becoming a modern data-driven tax authority.

The Taxpayer Online Service (TPOS) is a self-service platform which allows taxpayers to access accounts, statements and business license applications via a 24x7 online portal - all without visiting the FRCS offices.

The platform has replaced manual processes with workflow driven operations and automated functions.

Invenio experts will continue to provide ongoing employee training to give FRCS more control and continuous innovation across Fiji’s tax and trade landscape.

Arun Bala CEO at Invenio, said: “To deliver a transformational change programme of this scale and complexity for any government authority is a substantial challenge. This programme was delivered successfully due to the guidance, leadership and commitment provided by Mr. Visvanath Das, the CEO of FRCS - the main programme sponsor from FRCS. It has been a pleasure working with him and his team and I look forward to continuing this journey with them.”

Mr. Visvanath Das, CEO of FRCS said: “This is history in the making for the modern vision of the Fijian Government. The new system is changing the face of tax administration in Fiji by enabling 100% online taxpayer services, creating voluntary compliance and self-assessment environments, as well as third party interfaces to achieve pre-population of tax returns - an online payment opportunity enhancing ease of doing business and world class customer satisfaction. This is all about adding value to our stakeholder objectives for the next 20 years. The successful rollout of Phase 1 is a testament to our excellent relationship with our implementation partner Invenio Business Solutions and our dedicated project team at FRCS.”