A Cyprus-wide tax compliance campaign is currently underway, involving on-site audits by the Tax Department with a focus on businesses in coastal areas, with Tax Commissioner Sotiris Markidis telling CNA that the campaign’s goal is “to verify compliance with the legal framework governing transactions, specifically regarding the issuance of valid invoices and receipts, as well as the acceptance of card payments.”

“On-site inspections are conducted at all hours of the day and night, throughout Cyprus, with a current focus on businesses operating in coastal areas due to their increased seasonal economic activity,” said Mr. Markidis, noting, however, that “on-site inspections are expected to intensify in the coming period, and their geographic scope will be expanded.”

Furthermore, he noted that the instructions to authorized officials of the Tax Department are to conduct audits “with discretion, courtesy, and professionalism.”

“Particular importance is placed on maintaining the orderly and smooth operation of businesses, and officials must make every possible effort to ensure that business operations are not disrupted during on-site audits,” he said, adding that the campaign’s sole purpose is to strengthen tax compliance.

The Tax Commissioner appealed to citizens who may be asked to provide information regarding the issuance of valid invoices and receipts or the acceptance of card payments outside the business with which they have just transacted, to cooperate with the authorized officials of the Tax Department.

Source: CNA