An IMF tax administration mission is currently in the country to analyse our tax processes and procedures and to provide recommendations on potential efficiency gains. Within this context the Mission conducted an interactive workshop assisting government employees directly involved in the administration and implementation of our reform in understanding international best practice. Employees were mainly sourced from the Financial Planning, Trade and Policy & Strategy Divisions within the Ministry of Finance and from the Seychelles Revenue Commission including Customs.

“It is reassuring that the IMF tax administration Mission endorses our initiatives,” said Rene Nusse, Revenue Commissioner, “It confirms that we are on the right track towards implementing our tax reform program. It is essential for our staff to be fully committed and knowledgeable as this is one of the enablers to successfully deliver on providing our clients with and effective and cost efficient quality service. The government appreciates the dedication and effort that went into the workshop as it helped towards achieving our objectives.”

The speakers included Mission Chief, David Kloeden of the IMF Fiscal Affairs Department, Maureen Kidd who is a Public Policy Consultant and Edmund Biber, a Tax Administration Advisor.

Each had a particular focus as per their expertise and Mr Kloeden’s presentation centred on international and regional developments and trends. He stressed the benefits of moving into a tax reform giving examples of similar reform in countries on the African continent along with their outcome.

Ms Kidd’s presentation on future challenges in Customs administration gave staff insight on how to improve services without impeding normal operations even if faced with various external pressures. She emphasised the need for Seychelles Customs to build relationships with other Customs organisations around the world, with the business community and the government whilst keeping focused on the goal of protecting our borders, collecting revenue and facilitating trade.

The last presentation by Mr Biber provided advice on how to implement the tax administration reform at the Seychelles Revenue Commission. He covered ways of managing the transition and improving compliance.

The IMF tax Mission will be in the country until Monday when Mr Kloeden will hand the Mission’s aide-mémoire over to Minister Faure.