Skopje, 16 August 2022 (MIA) - The draft tax reform concept is mainly based on broadening of the tax base based on curbing of the gray economy. It's not about introducing reforms to increase taxes, Finance Minister Fatmir Besimi tells MIA. "Not a single tabled proposal involves nominal increase in taxes regulated by law. On the contrary, in legislation, if we talk about the effective tax rate, some groups especially low-income citizens, there will be situations in which tax burden could go downward," says Besimi. In an interview with MIA, the Minister notes that it is a concept rather than a bill the government has decided to pass. "I'm aware that such an issue will cause great public interest as well as some criticism. I'm prepared to listen to any criticism and to find adequate solutions. It's better to have a debate on such vital issues and to ultimately have no solution than to have a solution without a debate. It is not a new issue, it's being discussed for two years already," Besimi says adding the Ministry is open for discussion. Asked about public backlash that now it is not the time for this reform considering the global economic and energy crisis, Minister Besimi states that there is never the right time for tax reforms, but it's always the right time for important reforms "introducing economic growth, competitiveness of the national economy and better quality of living."