The Member of Parliament (MP) for West Are’Are and Chairman of the Bills and Legislative Committee, Hon. John Maneniaru, has expressed concern over the continued delay in progressing the long-anticipated Value Added Tax (VAT) Bill.
Hon. Maneniaru noted that the VAT Bill, which was initially expected to be tabled in Parliament in 2023, has already passed through legal clearance by the Attorney General’s Chambers and is now awaiting submission to Cabinet by the Minister for Finance and Treasury.
“This Bill has cleared the legal process. It is now ready for the next step. It would be helpful to understand what remains to be done before it is brought before Cabinet,” Hon. Maneniaru said.
Hon. Maneniaru highlighted the importance of the VAT Bill, particularly given the Government’s stated commitment to strengthening domestic revenue and ensuring fiscal sustainability.
“This is an important piece of legislation. If well designed and implemented, the VAT Bill could contribute meaningfully to revenue mobilisation and long-term economic resilience,” Hon. Maneniaru said.
The member for West Are’Are further noted the growing public interest in the Bill and encouraged greater clarity around its status.
“Given the significance of the Bill, and the public interest in tax reforms, it would be helpful for the Minister to provide an update. The public deserves to know where things stand,” Hon. Maneniaru said.
Hon. Maneniaru concluded by encouraging the responsible authorities to give the matter due attention.
“This is an important part of our national development agenda. Progressing the VAT Bill in a timely and transparent manner would be a positive step forward,” Hon. Maneniaru said.
– Opposition Press
