Andina

Peru's President on tax debts: To be time-barred is not the best option

11:16 | Cusco (Cusco region), Sep. 22.

Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra on Tuesday said that he hopes the Constitutional Court (TC) will make the most appropriate decision regarding the tax debts of large companies, noting that allowing their debts to be time-barred is not the best option.

After recalling that the TC meets today to address the issue, Mr. Vizcarra explained that the National Superintendence of Customs and Tax Administration (Sunat) collects taxes, makes a calculation on that basis, and disputes usually take place.

On the matter, he said, the correct procedure is to discuss it and analyze it. "This Sunat process, which is underway, should not be time-barred if it is being discussed," he stated.

"Around S/10 billion (around US$2.82 billion) is under discussion. It has to be analyzed, discussed, and determined if this is applicable or not, instead of saying that the debt may be time-barred," the President expressed.

Vizcarra remarked that his administration has always respected the independence of powers and what the Court resolves.

The Head of State pointed out that Sunat has strongly supported its position in response to a lawsuit filed by La Libertad Bar Association, which was later withdrawn.

"I am confident the TC will attempt to do what is correct, and we will obey because we are respectful. Allowing the debts to be time-barred would not be the best option and, in any case, the Constitutional Court's plenary session should make the most appropriate decision that complies with the law, as always," he noted.

Remarks were made after inaugurating the Social Health Insurance System's (EsSalud) Cusco Village, a facility located in Wanchaq district. It relies on 100 hospital beds, oxygen, medical personnel and medicines for the care of COVID-19 patients.

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Published: 9/22/2020