Bangkok:Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Dr. Gebreil Ibrahim emphasized the need for a fairer international tax system and expanded opportunities for developing countries to mobilize resources and finance their sustainable development priorities. He highlighted the necessity for international tax rules to align with these countries' needs, development priorities, and institutional capacities.
According to Sudan News Agency, Dr. Ibrahim spoke at a high-level meeting of finance ministers on the future of international tax cooperation held in Bangkok. He explained that the ongoing conflict in Sudan has severely impacted the national economy and public institutions, weakening the country's ability to collect revenue. This situation underscores the importance of tax reform and administrative modernization to aid in recovery and reconstruction.
Dr. Ibrahim outlined the need for developing digital tax and customs systems, broadening the tax base, improving compliance, enhancing transparency, and combating tax evasion and illicit financial flows. He stressed that achieving these goals requires sustained technical and financial support, including the development of digital infrastructure, capacity-building, and the transfer of knowledge and technology.
He called on international organizations such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank Group, as well as development partners, to coordinate their efforts and provide practical support tailored to the needs of fragile and conflict-affected countries. Dr. Ibrahim emphasized the importance of ensuring that international commitments result in tangible outcomes.
Furthermore, he highlighted the need for effective participation of developing countries in shaping international tax rules, especially those concerning the digital economy and cross-border services. Such involvement is crucial for promoting a fair allocation of taxing rights and enabling these countries to benefit from their resources without facing excessive implementation challenges.
The minister reaffirmed Sudan's dedication to modernizing its tax administration, enhancing transparency and accountability, and applying international standards in line with national circumstances and development priorities. He concluded that international tax cooperation should yield practical results, including increased public revenues and enhanced capacity to finance essential services, recovery, reconstruction, and sustainable development.