Shakira resolves tax evasion dispute with Spanish authorities

nme.com:

Shakira has now settled the long-running dispute with the authorities.The agreement comes after the singer was alleged to have avoided paying taxes over a number of years by using an offshore company based in a tax haven.The charges of tax fraud were first issued back in July 2021, when Barcelona prosecutors claimed Shakira should have been paying taxes as she was living in Spain for a substantial period between 2012 and 2014.A second wave of allegations arose two months ago when she was again charged with tax evasion in Spain.

This time, the prosecutors claimed that Shakira had failed to pay 6.7million euros (£5.8 million) in tax on her income in 2018.In total, the Spanish tax authorities alleged that she owed €14.5million (£12.6 million) in tax, and she was set to stand trial this month.

If convicted, she reportedly faced up to eight years in prison as well as a large fine.Now, in a new statement, Shakira has confirmed that she has resolved the debate with the Spanish authorities and ultimately decided not to take the matter to court due to the “emotional toll” it would have on her.“Throughout my career, I have always strived to do what’s right and set a positive example for others.

That often means taking the extra step in business and personal financial decisions to procure the absolute best counsel,” the statement began.“Unfortunately, and despite these efforts, tax authorities in Spain pursued a case against me as they have against many professional athletes and other high-profile individuals, draining those people’s energy, time, and tranquillity for years at a time.“While I was determined to defend my innocence in a trial that my lawyers were confident would have ruled in my favour, I have made the decision to.