Tax Service Chair shares perspective on Mishustin’s remarks on business pressure.
The Chairman of the State Tax Service of Kyrgyzstan, Almambet Shykmamatov, has responded to statements made by the Chairman of the Russian Government, Mikhail Mishustin, regarding unsubstantiated claims against Russian entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan. This response comes after a meeting between Mishustin and the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Adylbek Kasymaliev, which took place on January 31 in Kazakhstan.
Shykmamatov disputed Mishustin’s characterization of the situation as “extortion,” calling it an exaggeration. He suggested that Mishustin may be working with incomplete information, leading to the politicization of what should be economic issues. In contrast, Shykamatov highlighted that Kyrgyz authorities have been actively implementing reforms to combat corruption and promote transparency across all sectors.
Shykamatov provided data on customs deductions to the budget of the Eurasian Economic Union as evidence of Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to combating corruption. He noted significant increases in deductions while the republic’s share in redistribution decreased by half, indicating progress in tackling corrupt practices in the customs sphere.
Furthermore, Shykamatov pointed to the growth in tax collections in recent years, underscoring the government’s efforts to ensure all taxpayers fulfill their duty to contribute to the national budget. He emphasized that the law applies equally to all taxpayers, regardless of their origin, and that tax evasion would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Shykamatov reassured that taxpayers have the right to challenge any sanctions through appeals or court processes, emphasizing a commitment to due process and fairness. He concluded by stating that Kyrgyzstan offers equal opportunities for all investors and cautioned against overly politicizing business matters that could potentially impact strategic relations between countries.
