New Delhi: Among global regions, Asia shows the highest level of public trust in its tax system, with India standing out prominently. In India, citizens exhibit a strong ethical commitment to paying taxes and express confidence in government financial management. This insight comes from a new report jointly released by ACCA, IFAC, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ), and the OECD.
The report reveals that nearly 45 percent of Indians believe taxes collected by the government are spent on public welfare. Additionally, 41 percent of respondents view paying taxes not as a burden, but as a contribution to their society and nation. This underscores how tax payment is regarded as a civic responsibility in India.
Furthermore, 68 percent of Indians stated that they would never justify tax evasion, regardless of any opportunity to do so, reflecting high moral standards among the public.
The survey also indicates a willingness among Indians to pay taxes for long-term environmental and social development. Approximately 80 percent expressed readiness to pay slightly higher taxes to support sustainable development goals, linking tax policies with the future of society and the country.
Mohammad Sajid Khan, ACCA’s India Director, said that India’s results mirror broader Asian trends, where people perceive tax systems as fair, transparent, and connected to public welfare. The willingness of Indians to pay extra tax highlights alignment between tax policies and societal goals.
The survey, covering 29 countries, found that Asians generally view their tax systems as more equitable and beneficial compared to other regions. In Southeast Asia, nearly 65 percent see paying taxes as a social contribution rather than an expense.
Helen Brand OBE, ACCA Chief Executive Officer, noted that public trust in Asia’s tax systems serves as a global example. Governments must maintain this trust through continuous honesty and transparency.
Manal Korvin, Director of OECD’s Centre for Tax Policy and Administration, said this report is the initial phase of a new study on tax ethics in Asia. Future collaboration with governments will focus on identifying factors that build trust and best practices to enhance tax systems across the continent. This will assist governments in developing fairer, more accountable, and consistent tax frameworks.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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