The Finance department had advised the government against the waiver and the payment of ARF on a monthly basis.
When the concurrence of Finance department was obtained via U.O No. 1400075907 dated October 27, 2020; the Finance Department had rejected the suggestions of waiver and monthly payments.
“Considering the uncertain circumstances caused due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, all the sectors of economy were adversely affected. The casino industry, being a tourism-centric business, was shut since 16 March 2020,” the Finance Department opined.
Hence, it further said, acknowledging facts above, pro-rata waiver of ARF would require a policy decision to be taken by the Government.
“As regards to payment of ARF on monthly basis instead of one-time advance payment, the Finance Department may not recommend the same as the ARF in usual times is also paid as a one-shot payment at the beginning of the year,” it stated.
The Finance Department added that as the payment would be made now on pro-rata principle, there are no grounds to consider payment on monthly installment-basis.
“Further, the proposal of 50% reduction in ARF in light of the fact that 50% operation would be carried out may not be considered, as ARF is annual recurring fee which the operator have to pay irrespective of the operating capacity,” it says.
