Fiji removed from EU tax blacklist

Fiji has officially been removed from the European Union’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes, commonly known as the EU blacklist.

Fiji was first placed on the blacklist in March 2019 after concerns were raised over tax transparency, fair taxation and the implementation of Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) minimum standards.

Since then, Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has undertaken extensive legislative, policy and institutional reforms to address the identified issues.

In a statement, FRCS said the removal restores confidence in Fiji’s tax framework, strengthens the country’s international reputation and demonstrates its commitment to global cooperation and responsible tax governance.

Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, Esrom Immanuel, FRCS chief executive officer Udit Singh, FRCS Chief of Staff/ Director Corporate Services Shavindra Nath in Paris, France for the signing of the Multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters (MAAC).

Photo: Supplied

Minister for Finance, Esrom Immanuel, said the decision enhances Fiji’s international relationships, particularly with countries within the European Union forum. Mr Immanuel said this will restore confidence among foreign investors, trading partners and major development partners.

He added that it would also further enhance Fiji's free trade with European Union countries under the EU-Pacific Interim Economic Partnership Agreement.

During the submission of the FRCS 2021–2022 Annual Report to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence on April 2, 2025, FRCS chief executive officer Udit Singh committed that Fiji would secure removal from the blacklist within 12 to 18 months. That commitment has now been fulfilled in 10 months.

Mr Singh said the achievement required extensive technical expertise, consistency and commitment from the FRCS team.

He also acknowledged the support of Government, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and development partners throughout the reform process.

Mr Singh further recognised the technical assistance provided by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development in implementing the required international tax standards for the benefit of the Fijian economy.

FRCS says it will continue reforms to improve tax collection, transparency and compliance while supporting economic resilience.