Open dialogue, fairness and joint search for solutions are the basis for effective interaction between the state and business. These aspects became key during the meeting between Acting Head of the State Tax Service Yurii Koniushenko and representatives of the Business Ombudsman Council led by Anka Feldhusen.

Parties discussed promising cooperation areas, current tax administration questions, problems faced by the taxpayers and opportunities for improving interaction mechanisms.

Acting Head of the State Tax Service emphasized that the key task for the Tax Service is to ensure stable revenues to the budget, but this should be achieved not by increasing pressure on conscientious taxpayers, but through systematic counteraction to abuses.

“We should focus on segment of the economy that is currently in the shadows. Currently, the Government is paying special attention to direction of the un-shadowing economy. Basis of our work should be high-quality analytics, formation of a comprehensive approach to identifying risks and fair treatment of each payer” – Yurii Koniushenko stated.

Separately, they discussed improving work with the taxpayers’ complaints, in particular, processing systemic problems that require response, as well as continuing effective activities of joint expert groups. Dynamics of receiving appeals by the State Tax Service from the Business Ombudsman Council during the year regarding execution of court decisions, block of tax invoices and other practical questions indicates their significant increase. 

Parties also discussed prospects for developing cooperation in the tax mediation sphere. This tool for pre-trial settlement of disputes can become additional opportunity for constructive dialogue between the Tax Service and the business.

Interaction between the State Tax Service and the Business Ombudsman Council remains important platform for discussing current questions, establishing effective communication and finding balanced solutions.

“We are interested in ensuring that business operates according to clear rules, that conscientious taxpayers feel treated fairly, and that state resources are formed through fair competition and transparent economy” – emphasized Acting Head of the State Tax Service.