Tax officials met local businessmen and entrepreneurs.

The Ministry of Taxes has begun to meet with local businessmen and entrepreneurs. The purpose of the meetings is to develop a more favourable business environment in the country, inform taxpayers about the changes in the tax laws, as well as the ongoing tax reforms, review and resolve on-site the problems and difficulties faced by entrepreneurs in this area. One of such meetings was held in the assembly hall of Gabala Territorial Tax Department no 10. The meeting was attended by the officials of the Ministry of Taxes, and more than 60 entrepreneurs operating in various industries. At the meeting, it was emphasized that as noted by the President Ilham Aliyev, the country’s further development in the current new economic conditions will depend on the development of entrepreneurship. The government is taking all necessary measures to create a more favourable business environment, strengthen state support for entrepreneurs, and in particular, eliminate the obstacles to business development. It was noted that in order to increase local production and improve the business climate, under the relevant decree of the head of state the inspections of business activities have been suspended for 2 years, the number of business activities requiring a special permit (license) was reduced from 59 to 37, and procedures for their issuance were simplified. It was noted that, in turn, taxpayers and business owners need to perform their duties, correctly calculate the taxes, to pay them to the state budget on time and in full, and ensure transparency in tax accounting. During the meeting, it has been widely discussed the issues related to ensuring transparency in tax accounting. It was emphasized that taxpayers should correctly indicate the turnover, keep records transparently and prevent abuses in this area. Also, cash registers and POS-terminals should be widely used in wholesale and retail trade facilities. The meetings were heard appeals and proposals in connection with the problems faced by entrepreneurs, a lot of questions were replied and entrepreneurs were advised to contact the local tax authorities and regional taxpayer service centres when difficulties arise.