AT the 8th meeting of the Forum on Tax Administration, the representatives of 45 economies resolved to secure high levels of voluntary tax compliance by providing excellent service and effectively addressing tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance in all its forms, including the underground economy. In a Press Communique, they said that these are key elements in managing and responding to the effects of the crisis. ''As heads of tax administration, we are committed to co-ordinated action and united in our resolve and determination to improve the effectiveness of our tax administrations, tackle trans-national tax fraud, tax evasion and aggressive tax planning,'' they added.

The Statement states that all the Members of the Forum strongly encourage closer inter-agency co-operation in the fight against tax crimes and in that regard, they have identified particular synergies, in combating tax and customs evasion and avoidance, that they will fully exploit.