The finance ministry has to-date signed memorandums of understanding (MoU) with 10 banks to process tax-related payments to the General Department of Taxation (GDT), one of its subordinate units.

The GDT this week reiterated a call to the lenders to be attentive to improving the overall efficiency of taxpayer services.

GDT deputy director Ken Sambath met with the partner banks earlier this month to discuss the progress and objectives of the MoUs.

According to the department, the 10 banks are: Canadia Bank Plc, ACLEDA Bank Plc, Cambodian Public Bank Plc, Vattanac Bank, J Trust Royal Bank Plc, Cambodia Post Bank Plc, Foreign Trade Bank of Cambodia, SATHAPANA Bank Plc, Advanced Bank of Asia Ltd, and Wing Bank (Cambodia) Plc.

Representatives of the lenders vowed to prioritise improving tax payment efficiency, in line with the MoUs and legal provisions. They also mentioned near-term plans to upgrade their internal technology.

Sambath stressed that additional tax payment channels can bring services closer to taxpayers and otherwise make like easier for them, instructing the partner banks to provide effective taxpayer services and promote tax compliance.

He also highlighted the convenience of digital tax payment solutions, which he noted were crucial during the height of Covid-19.

“Taxpayers paid their dues through the e-filing and e-payment systems from home or from the office, or from anywhere with internet,” he said, underscoring the importance of limiting face-to-face interactions during a pandemic.