Dear Editor,
As a citizen of Guyana, I feel compelled to raise an issue of national importance. It pains me when I make purchases at places such as sawmills, where receipts are given only if requested, and even then, they are often incomplete, sometimes just a single sheet with a faint printed or stamped name and address. It is clear these receipts are issued merely to satisfy the customer. In many places, when you request a receipt, the response is, “Well, you will have to pay VAT,” which implies that without asking, VAT is intentionally not charged. In this way, the revenue of Guyana – and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA – is being cheated. I always make it clear: please charge me my VAT.
I have observed this issue at both local and Chinese establishments, with the latter being among the more frequent defaulters, evaders, or dodgers. Some Guyanese and many Chinese business operators in this country are known to avoid paying taxes. They often do not maintain legal bank accounts, prefer cash transactions, and conduct business strictly in cash. I noted with great respect that H E Ambassador Yang Yang of the People’s Republic of China spoke about this issue in one of her addresses, appealing to Chinese nationals to import quality goods, open legal bank accounts, and operate within the law. Let me be clear: there are many Guyanese who behave in the same way.
I wish to emphasise that I am a great admirer of Chinese civilisation and history, including their medicinal and inventive accomplishments. My comments should not be misconstrued; I am simply pointing out the reality, and it applies to many Guyanese as well.
Because of these practices, the Government is not receiving the tax revenues it should – whether royalties, VAT, corporate taxes, or otherwise. I believe the Government of Guyana, in conjunction with the GRA, needs to conduct major investigations and evaluations to ensure that our national tax revenue is not being undermined.
I do not wish to make life difficult for anyone, but all must comply with our laws and show patriotism to our country.