Tax administration steps up evasion fight as tip-offs jump over 67 percent
Kosovo Tax Administration has reported a sharp rise in tip-offs from citizens and businesses, ramping up enforcement actions against tax evasion.
PRISHTINA — The Kosovo Tax Administration has reported a roughly 67.1 percent rise in tax-evasion tip-offs, Telegrafi writes. The higher volume of reports has also boosted the number of audits and verification actions carried out by tax inspectors.
According to the institution, tips come from citizens, competing businesses and employees flagging unlawful practices at work. The agency stresses that the anonymity of those who report is protected, and cases with sufficient evidence are treated as a priority.
Tax evasion remains one of the main fiscal problems for the state budget, draining millions of euros from public coffers each year. Tackling it is seen as essential for funding public services and capital investment.
Sectors most exposed
Hospitality, construction and retail have traditionally been considered the riskiest sectors for evasion. The agency says it is using data analytics and cross-checks with customs systems to identify discrepancies.
Compliant businesses have welcomed the tougher checks, arguing they create a level playing field. The business community has also asked for simpler procedures for paying taxes.
According to Telegrafi, the agency stressed that the roughly 67.1 percent rise in tip-offs reflects greater citizen awareness, and that every report received will be investigated according to legal procedure.
Economists believe higher revenues from anti-evasion efforts could create extra fiscal room for the government at a time when budget revision is on the table. They caution, however, that systemic tax reform is needed for durable results.
Source: Telegrafi