Ruslan Kravchenko initiates strengthening of cooperation between tax authorities of Ukraine and Austria

Head of the State Tax Service Ruslan Kravchenko and Ambassador of Austria to Ukraine Arad Benkö discussed, during the meeting, initiative to deepen cooperation in the tax administration sphere between the competent authorities of Ukraine and Austria. 

Key topics include combating tax evasion, financial transparency and international cooperation in the tax sphere. 

Head of the State Tax Service noted that among the strategic areas of cooperation between the tax authorities of the two countries are: 

- transfer pricing control;  

- information exchange within the framework of bilateral/multilateral agreements – ensuring timely and complete receipt of data; 

 - prevention of financial transactions related to the legalization of proceeds from crime – coordination of efforts of the tax authorities in the counteraction against financial crimes; 

- termination of tax fraud schemes. 

According to Ruslan Kravchenko, such cooperation will be beneficial for both countries. 

He recalled that the State Tax Service, as a participant in the Multilateral agreement of competent authorities on the automatic exchange of information, already carries out international exchange of information regarding financial accounts based on the CRS standard. 

"This helps eliminate tax evasion schemes, as it significantly expands possibilities of identifying undeclared income. Such mechanism is extremely important for Ukraine, especially in times of war, given the need to ensure stable tax revenues" – emphasized Ruslan Kravchenko. 

In addition, the parties discussed the bilateral screening meeting on negotiating chapter 16 "Taxation", which will take place in June. This is important step on Ukraine’s path to full accession to the EU. State Tax Service is doing everything possible to successfully pass the screening.

"Introduction of international standards in the tax sphere is important step towards financial stability and combating tax evasion. We are working to strengthen trust towards the tax administration system and the State Tax Service of Ukraine with support of our international partners" – stated Ruslan Kravchenko.