The Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) has reported that approximately MVR 3.7 billion in outstanding funds was recovered by the state last year through various enforcement actions.

The figures, disclosed in MIRA’s latest annual report, highlight the authority’s ongoing efforts to enhance compliance and recover unpaid taxes and other dues.

According to the report, MIRA issued enforcement notices to 36,843 individuals, with 8,139 responding in compliance. Significant amounts were owed in both tax and non-tax revenues, prompting the implementation of six main recovery mechanisms.

Of the total amount recovered, MVR 2.7 billion was collected through enforcement notices, while MVR 625.7 million came from dues clearance. Other measures included public disclosure (MVR 43.9 million), bank account freezes (MVR 109.4 million), legal proceedings (MVR 86,733), and email or reminder notices (MVR 239.9 million). These enforcement methods were applied to 18,969 individuals.

While enforcement remains central to MIRA’s mandate, the authority also continues to support taxpayers in financial distress. Instalment payment plans are offered under structured arrangements to ease the burden of lump-sum payments. In 2023, 1,029 individuals—collectively owing MVR 2.5 billion—were granted such assistance. A total of 3,535 individuals entered instalment agreements, from which MVR 894.7 million was received during the year.

The report also noted that 55 legal cases concerning unpaid dues were successfully resolved, forming part of ongoing court proceedings involving the state.

MIRA stated that its strengthened enforcement framework has significantly improved recovery outcomes. The authority also observed increased cooperation from the public, attributing this to its proactive recovery strategies and the flexibility offered through concessionary schemes.