India’s Finance Minister Inaugurates 18th Plenary Meeting of the Global Forum on Tax Information Exchange

India has opened the 18th Plenary Meeting of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes in New Delhi. The event, being held from 2–5 December 2025, focuses on the theme “Tax Transparency: Delivering a Shared Vision Through International Cooperation.” With 172 member jurisdictions, the Global Forum is the world’s biggest platform working to prevent tax evasion and strengthen financial transparency.

India Welcomes Global Delegates

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the plenary. She warmly welcomed all international participants and highlighted how the world has moved from secrecy-driven financial systems to an era where transparency is essential for fairness and strong governance.

Importance of Transparency for India

The Finance Minister said that transparency in taxation is not just a technical requirement but a value that supports development. She explained that when money leaves the tax system unlawfully, countries lose resources needed for growth.

She added that India has seen better voluntary tax compliance because of simpler rules, clear communication, and a strong climate of trust. She also noted that technology and AI can support tax administration, but they must be used responsibly and with proper safeguards.

Call for Stronger Global Cooperation

Sitharaman urged countries to work together more closely as the world economy becomes increasingly digital. She stressed that global trust has real economic value and must be protected through cooperation and fair practices.

Understanding the Global Forum Plenary

The Plenary is the Global Forum’s main decision-making meeting. It brings together all member countries, major global organisations, and development partners. Decisions are made through consensus, and all members participate equally.

• The annual meeting reviews progress on two key standards:
• Exchange of Information on Request (EOIR)
• Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI)

The sessions also include updates on peer reviews, regional initiatives in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and discussions on crypto-asset reporting and risk management.

India’s Role and Leadership

India has been a member of the Global Forum since 2009 and holds several important positions, including roles in the Steering Group and the Peer Review Groups. India also co-chaired the Asia Initiative during 2023–24.

India has consistently supported developing nations by offering training sessions, consultations, and capacity-building programmes.

India’s Ongoing Commitment

India continues to promote a fair and inclusive global tax system. During its G20 Presidency in 2023, India pushed for wider use of exchanged information and greater participation of developing countries in AEOI under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS).

The current plenary will focus on improving implementation, strengthening administrative capabilities, and ensuring that all countries — big or small — benefit equally from tax transparency.