Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, at a meeting with representatives of domestic business, instructed the government to further study the issue of the VAT rate.
"Any innovations should be implemented on the basis of a comprehensive analysis and a well-thought-out strategy.It is necessary to work out various options that take into account the specifics of the economic sectors. I have not spoken out on this matter before, since my every word, every statement, due to my official status, can be considered a strict order, but now I would like to speak out. The VAT rate should be differentiated. The decision on its upper limit should be made by the government based on precise calculations, taking into account the opinion of qualified, I emphasize, qualified experts, entrepreneurs and, of course, deputies," the head of state said.
According to the president, the rate proposed by the government was still too high.
" You have voiced this figure. The reaction was quite sharp, sometimes too sharp, in my opinion, since it was a preliminary proposal that is subject to discussion. I emphasize that the government's work in this direction must continue, taking into account the opinions of all representatives, be it business, the public, entrepreneurs, experts. And this year we must come to a decision. I repeat: the government must discuss this issue in detail with deputies and experts. We must also take into account the proposals made during today's meeting. The state needs optimal solutions that, on the one hand, will provide favorable conditions and will not create obstacles for business, and on the other, will allow us to restore order in the tax sphere and ensure an increase in budget revenues , " Tokayev emphasized.
By the Kazakhstanskaya Pravda
