Ruslan Kravchenko: Finnish Tax Administration will help the State Tax Service increase trust towards the institution

Tax authorities of Ukraine and Finland will implement project to increase trust towards the State Tax Service. Relevant Memorandum on Technical assistance to increase trust towards the State Tax Service of Ukraine as effective and qualified organization with high standards was signed by Head of the State Tax Service of Ukraine Ruslan Kravchenko and Director General of the Finnish Tax Administration (VERO) Markku Heikura.

"Finnish Tax Administration (VERO) has a high level of trust among Finnish citizens, which significantly exceeds average level of trust towards tax authorities in the EU countries. According to results of the latest survey, 93% of Finns consider paying taxes important civic duty. This is result of transparency, customer orientation and active use of information technologies in working with the taxpayers. And we in Ukraine strive to achieve the same result" – noted Ruslan Kravchenko.

State Tax Service will cooperate with VERO within the project framework in three key areas:

- Improving integrity.

This stage will include conducting anti-corruption trainings, developing and implementing modern training methodology.

- Reform and risk management.

This concerns implementation of the project management model, strengthening investment risk management, and information security.

- Increasing trust towards the State Tax Service.

This direction involves public survey on the level of trust, regular review of strategic goals and constant open communication with the taxpayers.

Project is designed for 2025 – 2028 and will be financed by the Finnish government. Its cost is 1.6 million euros.

Special attention will be focused on the Finnish experience of interacting with all government organizations and ministries to combat money laundering and economic crimes.

"Finnish companies that operate in Ukraine demonstrate a high level of integrity and responsibility in questions regarding tax payments. Last year, enterprises with a significant Finnish share of capital paid 29% more to the consolidated budget of Ukraine than in 2023. At the same time, 50 out of 54 largest payers made 100% of payments to the budget. Tax debt of these enterprises at the beginning of this year decreased by 91%. I am grateful to my Finnish colleagues for their willingness to share their experience. We strive for qualitative changes in the State Tax Service that would meet international standards" – emphasized Head of the State Tax Service Ruslan Kravchenko.