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    Thailand Steps Up to Global Tax Reform Challenge

    Thailand Global Tax Reform – Introduction

    Thailand has recently taken a significant stride in international tax reform by joining the International Cooperation Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting, a collective of over 140 economic zones initiated by the OECD/G20.

    This participation aligns Thailand with a global movement aimed at addressing tax challenges presented by the digital economy through a comprehensive two-pillar solution.

    Draft Guiding Principles Revealed

    The Thai Revenue Department has disclosed the guiding principles derived from this global framework, signaling a proactive approach to integrating these international tax standards.

    As these proposals are in the draft stage, stakeholders have been invited to contribute their insights and feedback to refine the approach.

    Key Actions and Measures

    General

    The Ministry of Finance is spearheading the implementation process, which involves critical actions such as:

    Enhanced Tax Collection

    Adhering to Pillar 2’s principles, Thailand aims to adjust its tax collection strategies to ensure fairness and efficiency in the digital age.

    Support for Target Industries

    Funds raised from the new tax measures will be allocated to a special fund dedicated to enhancing the competitiveness of key sectors within Thailand’s economy.

    Increased Transparency

    Information on taxpayers benefiting from these changes will be systematically reported to the Office of the Board of Investment, ensuring oversight and alignment with investment strategies.

    Stakeholder Engagement

    A key aspect of Thailand’s approach is the active solicitation of feedback from the business community, tax professionals, and other interested parties.

    This open call for comments, facilitated through the Revenue Department’s and the central legal system’s websites, underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusiveness in shaping its tax policy.

    Thailand Global Tax Reform – Conclusion

    Thailand’s commitment to adopting the OECD/G20’s two-pillar solution is a testament to its dedication to international tax cooperation and its role in fostering a fair, sustainable global tax landscape.

    As the country moves forward with these reforms, the engagement and input of stakeholders will be invaluable in ensuring that Thailand’s tax system remains competitive, equitable, and aligned with global standards.

    Thailand Global Tax Reform  – Final thoughts

    If you have any queries about this article on Thailand Global Tax Reform, or Thai tax matters in general, then please get in touch.

     

    Bahamas Financial Sector Appeals for Review of 15% Global Corporate Tax

    Bahamas Financial Sector Appeals for Reevaluation of 15% Global Corporate Tax – Introduction

    On 21 March 2024, the Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) and the Association of International Banks and Trust Companies (AIBT) have come forward with a significant plea to the government.

    In a joint statement, these key industry stakeholders have voiced their concern over the proposed enactment of a minimum 15% global corporate tax, a move aligned with the OECD‘s Pillar Two framework aimed at modernizing international business taxation rules.

    What’s the problem?

    The Bahamas’ decision to introduce this tax comes as a strategy to adhere to the OECD’s base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) initiative, targeting multinational enterprises (MNEs) with a group turnover exceeding EUR750 million annually.

    The government’s plan includes unveiling draft legislation by the end of May 2024, with a legislative Bill anticipated to follow after further consultations.

    The Industry’s Stance

    However, the BFSB and AIBT have raised alarms over the proposed tax, arguing that it challenges the sovereignty of nations to manage their tax systems independently.

    Their contention is that international tax regulations should pivot towards reinforcing economic substance rules and harmonizing transfer pricing standards to curb tax evasion and profit shifting.

    An open letter has been dispatched to a UN committee currently penning a new international tax cooperation convention. This emerging UN convention garners support mainly from smaller jurisdictions and developing countries, advocating for more equitable tax cooperation frameworks.

    The Argument Against One-Size-Fits-All Tax Rates

    The joint letter criticizes the OECD’s approach of instituting a uniform tax rate as a means to tackle avoidance and evasion by large MNEs, suggesting it would unfairly eliminate tax competition among nations.

    The BFSB and AIBT propose a model where tax rules of a jurisdiction are applied based on the economic substance present, whether the tax rate is 0% or 15%.

     A Call for a ‘Holding’ Period

    Furthermore, the BFSB and AIBT recommend the introduction of a ‘holding’ period for countries willing to engage in the UN tax convention.

    This grace period aims to streamline the adoption of new international tax standards and prevent the overlapping of efforts resulting from competing tax rules set by different international bodies.

    Conclusion

    As the Bahamas prepares to navigate through these proposed tax changes, the financial sector’s plea highlights a critical conversation about sovereignty, economic competitiveness, and fairness in the global tax landscape.

    The coming months will be pivotal as the government contemplates these feedbacks and moves towards legislating this global tax initiative.

    Final thoughts

    If you have any queries about this article, the Bahamas Financial Sector Appeals for Reevaluation of 15% Global Corporate Tax, or tax matters in the Bahamas more generally, then please get in touch.

    Country-by-Country Reporting Update – Introduction

    Country-by-Country Reporting Update – Introduction

    The business landscape is set to change significantly with the recent adaptation of public Country-by-Country Reporting obligations in the European Union, a development that underscores a global shift towards greater tax transparency.

    Stemming from the European Commission’s proposal back in April 2016, this requirement mandates Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) to disclose annual reports on profits and taxes paid across all operational countries.

    Finalised after years of deliberation, this regulation aims to shed light on MNEs’ tax strategies and their contribution to societal welfare.

    An Overview of the Decree

    The Decree incorporates these requirements into Dutch law, targeting entities exceeding €750 million in consolidated revenue for two consecutive years.

    This applies to various forms of Dutch entities, including branches and subsidiaries of non-EU headquartered MNEs, introducing a new layer of fiscal responsibility.

    However, the Decree’s broad scope raises questions about its applicability to entities solely operating within the Netherlands or those with minimal revenue from traditional business activities.

    What Needs to be Published?

    MNEs must now disclose detailed financial information, ranging from the number of employees to profit before income tax and the amount of income tax paid.

    This requirement extends to reporting for each EU member state, including additional disclosures for countries deemed non-cooperative tax jurisdictions.

    Interestingly, the Decree allows for the temporary omission of information that could harm the commercial stance of the entities involved, albeit with strict conditions.

    Reporting Timelines and Procedures

    Entities must file their reports within 12 months post-financial year, ensuring public accessibility in an EU official language and via a prescribed electronic format.

    This proactive approach is aimed at promoting transparency and encouraging fair tax practices across borders.

    Implications for Dutch Entities

    The integration of this EU directive into Dutch law signals a significant shift towards transparency, yet it leaves room for interpretation, especially concerning the calculation of net turnover and the classification of subsidiaries.

    Moreover, the absence of a specific conversion rate for MNEs operating in non-Euro currencies adds another layer of complexity to compliance.

    Country-by-Country Reporting Update – Conclusion

    As the EU strides towards greater tax transparency, Dutch businesses find themselves navigating a sea of new reporting obligations.

    While the directive aligns with global trends, its implementation raises practical concerns, from the definition of applicable entities to the intricacies of financial reporting.

    Businesses must tread carefully, ensuring their reporting strategies are compliant yet strategic, safeguarding their commercial interests while aligning with the broader goal of societal welfare through fair taxation.

    Final thoughts

    For more insights into how these changes may affect your business or for any inquiries on Dutch or EU tax matters, feel free to get in touch.  

    New minimum tax law in Germany

    New Minimum tax law in Germany – Introduction

    On December 27, 2023, the Implementation Act for the Minimum Tax Directive (Minimum Tax Act for short) was promulgated.

    The Bundestag had previously passed the law on November 10, 2023 and the Bundesrat subsequently gave its approval on December 15, 2023.

    The new Minimum Taxation Act serves to implement the EU Minimum Taxation Directive, which the EU member states were obliged to implement by the end of 2023.

    Content of the new minimum tax law

    The core of the transposition law – which in its full name is the “Law on the implementation of the Directive to ensure global minimum taxation for multinational enterprise groups and large domestic groups in the Union” – is the regulation of effective minimum taxation at a global level.

    It is intended to counteract threats to competition and aggressive tax planning.

    To this end, the international community (G20 countries in cooperation with the OECD) has taken certain measures to combat profit reduction and profit shifting.

    The new minimum tax law applies to all financial years beginning after December 31, 2023, with the exception of the secondary supplementary tax regulation.

    The secondary supplementary tax regulation only applies to financial years beginning after December 30, 2024.

    The two-pillar solution

    The Minimum Taxation Act is part of the so-called two-pillar solution and is aimed in particular at implementing the second pillar (“Pillar Two”).

    The first of these two pillars (“Pillar One”) of the international agreements on which this is based provides for new tax nexus points and regulations for the distribution of profits between several countries.

    Particularly due to advancing digitalization, companies would otherwise often operate in other countries without having a physical presence in that country.

    As a result, profits could be taxed in a place where they were not generated. In this respect, the first pillar affects the question of the “where” of taxation. The first pillar is currently still the subject of political debate.

    The second pillar concerns regulations for the introduction of effective minimum taxation at a global level and therefore the question of how high taxation should be. Corresponding regulations are intended to counteract aggressive tax planning and harmful competition.

    Irrespective of how an individual state structures tax liability and the extent to which tax concessions are to be granted, for example, a general minimum threshold for taxation should apply. This should make tax planning less risky. In order to close gaps in taxation, certain options for subsequent taxation should apply.

    The second pillar and the associated provisions of the Minimum Tax Act are intended to remedy this. The new Minimum Tax Act obliges larger companies to pay tax on profits in certain cases. Any negative difference to the specified minimum tax rate must be retaxed in the home country.

    Adjustment of income and foreign tax regulations

    The adjustment of income tax and foreign tax must be accompanied by the introduction of the Minimum Tax Act.

    Who is affected by the Minimum Taxation Act?

    The new minimum taxation law binds large nationally or internationally active companies or groups of companies with a turnover of at least EUR 750 million in at least two of the last four financial years. The legal form of the company or group of companies is irrelevant.

    There is an exception to this in accordance with Section 83 of the Minimum Taxation Act if the company’s international activities are subordinate. This is the case if the company has business units in no more than 6 tax jurisdictions and the total assets of these business units do not exceed EUR 50 million. In this case, these are not taxable business units.

    The provisions of the new minimum tax law pose major challenges for the companies concerned with regard to the necessary procurement and evaluation of the extensive data. The prescribed calculation system can only be complied with if these large volumes of data are comprehensively evaluated. Companies often lack this data, have not collected it in the past or it is not or not fully stored in the relevant IT systems.

    However, the new minimum tax law provides for certain simplifications and transitional regulations for the first three years. Specifically, this relates to the simplified materiality test, the simplified effective tax rate test and the substance test.

    There are also other simplifications without time limits, such as in Section 80 of the Minimum Tax Act for immaterial business units upon application.

    Concept of minimum tax

    General

    The minimum tax applicable under the new implementation law is made up of three factors:

    Primary and secondary

    The primary and secondary supplementary tax amounts relate to the difference in the event of under-taxation of a business unit.

    The parent companies of the corporate group are generally subject to the primary supplementary tax regulation.

    The secondary supplementary tax regulation serves as a subsidiary catch-all provision for cases that are not already covered by the primary supplementary tax amount.

    National Supplementary Tax

    The national supplementary tax amount is the increase amount determined in the Federal Republic of Germany for the respective business unit.

    The tax increase amount is calculated on the basis of a minimum tax rate of 15 percent.

    Overall, the minimum tax is a separate tax that applies in addition to the income and corporation tax that is due anyway, irrespective of income and legal form.

    New Minimum tax law in Germany – Conclusion

    Germany’s enactment of the Minimum Tax Act marks a significant step towards aligning with the EU’s directive for global minimum taxation, aiming to curb aggressive tax planning and ensure fair competition.

    Effective from the fiscal year beginning after December 31, 2023, this legislation targets large multinational and domestic corporations, setting a minimum tax rate of 15% to prevent profit shifting and reduce tax evasion.

    With its comprehensive approach and inclusion of transitional simplifications, the law represents an important shift in international tax policy, reinforcing Germany’s commitment to the OECD and G20’s two-pillar solution for global tax reform.

    Final thoughts

    if you have any queries about this article on the New Minimum tax law in Germany, or German tax matters in general, then please get in touch.

    India’s Finance Act 2023: Royalties and FTS for Non-Residents

    India Finance Act 2023 – Introduction

    In a significant move to adjust its tax framework, the Finance Act 2023 introduced an amendment that impacts non-residents receiving royalty and fees for technical services (FTS) in India.

    Since its inception in 1974, the Income Tax Act 1961 has undergone numerous revisions, with the latest changes set to influence multinational corporations and their operations within India.

    Historical Context and Recent Amendments

    Previously, the tax rate for royalty and FTS received by non-residents was set at 10% (plus applicable surcharge and cess), as outlined in Section 115A of the Act.

    This rate was momentarily increased to 25% in 2013 before being restored to 10% in 2015.

    However, the Finance Act 2023 has now doubled this rate to 20% (plus surcharge and cess), effective from 1 April 2023.

    Implications for Non-Residents

    The increase in the tax rate to 20% presents a significant shift for non-residents deriving income from royalty and FTS in India.

    Given that many tax treaties with countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States offer a lower tax rate of 15%, non-residents had previously opted for taxation under Section 115A of the Act due to its beneficial provisions, including specific exemptions from filing tax returns in India under certain conditions.

    With the amendment, non-residents are likely to pivot towards claiming benefits under applicable tax treaties, which, while potentially offering lower tax rates, also necessitate additional compliance measures, including tax registrations in India and filing of income tax returns.

    Increased Compliance and Documentation Requirements

    The requirement to file tax returns in India, necessitated by claiming treaty benefits, introduces a new layer of compliance for non-residents.

    This includes the need for obtaining tax registrations and electronically filing Form 10F, a declaration form used by non-residents to claim treaty benefits.

    Although there has been a temporary relief allowing manual submission of Form 10F until 30 September 2023, electronic filing will become mandatory thereafter, adding to the compliance burden for non-residents without a tax registration number.

    Moreover, Indian payers making royalty or FTS payments to non-residents must now ensure that they collect and maintain specific documents from the non-residents to apply the treaty rates of withholding tax.

    These documents include the Tax Residency Certificate, No Permanent Establishment Declaration, and the electronically filed Form 10F.

    Failure to comply with these documentation requirements may result in withholding tax being applied at the higher domestic rate, along with potential penalties for the Indian payer.

    Potential Impact on Indian Payers

    The amendment could also have financial implications for Indian payers, especially in cases where royalty or FTS payments are grossed-up to cover the tax liability of the non-resident recipient.

    The increased tax rate may lead to higher cash outflows for Indian payers, emphasizing the importance of efficient tax planning and compliance.

    India Finance Act 2023 – Conclusion

    The Finance Act 2023’s decision to double the tax rate on royalty and FTS for non-residents marks an important change in India’s tax regime, aiming to align with global taxation practices.

    While this may increase the tax burden and compliance requirements for non-residents, leveraging tax treaty benefits could mitigate some of these challenges.

    Final thoughts

    As India continues to refine its tax laws, it is crucial for non-residents and Indian payers alike to stay informed and compliant with the evolving legal landscape.

    If you have any thoughts on this article then please get in touch.

    Kenyan changes to Permanent Establishments

    Kenyan changes to Permanent Establishments – Introductions

    Kenya’s Income Tax Act, a cornerstone of the nation’s tax legislation since 1974, has witnessed significant modifications following the enactment of the Finance Act 2023.

    These changes are particularly relevant for multinational corporations operating in Kenya through permanent establishments.

    The recent adjustments aim to modernize and adapt Kenya’s tax system to the evolving global business landscape, especially in light of advancements in technology that enable remote work.

    Expanded Definition of Permanent Establishment

    A critical update in 2021 broadened the scope of what constitutes a permanent establishment in Kenya.

    Specifically, the provision of services, including consultancy by employees or personnel engaged for such purposes, can establish a permanent establishment if the activities exceed 91 days within any twelve-month period.

    This expansion reflects the modern work environment’s flexibility and underscores the need for multinationals to monitor their operations closely to avoid unintended tax implications.

    Key Tax Changes from the Finance Act 2023

    Introduction of Repatriation of Profits Tax

    Starting 1 January 2024, profits repatriated by permanent establishments will incur a 15% tax.

    This move, initially proposed in the Income Tax Bill, 2018, signifies Kenya’s intention to ensure that profits generated within its borders contribute to the national revenue, even when they are sent abroad.

    The formula for computing repatriated profits takes into account net assets at the beginning and end of the year, net profit, and tax paid on chargeable income, excluding asset revaluation.

    Reduction of Corporate Tax Rate

    In a bid to stimulate business growth and investment, the corporate tax rate for permanent establishments will be reduced from 37.5% to 30%, effective from 1 January 2024.

    This reduction aligns Kenya’s tax regime with international standards and makes the country a more attractive destination for foreign investment.

    Deductibility of Remuneration for Non-resident Directors

    The Finance Act, 2023 removes previous restrictions on the deductibility of remuneration paid to non-resident directors who hold a controlling interest in the company.

    Previously, deductions for such remuneration were limited if they exceeded 5% of the total income of the company.

    This amendment, effective from 1 July 2023, allows permanent establishments more flexibility in compensating non-resident directors, enhancing Kenya’s appeal as a conducive environment for international business operations.

    Implications for Multinational Corporations

    These changes underscore Kenya’s commitment to fostering a competitive and equitable business environment.

    By equalizing the corporate tax rate for both subsidiaries and permanent establishments and introducing a tax on repatriated profits, Kenya aims to balance the need for foreign investment with the imperative of ensuring that such investments contribute fairly to the national economy.

    Multinational companies operating in Kenya through permanent establishments must carefully navigate these changes.

    The introduction of the repatriation tax, in particular, necessitates strategic planning to optimize tax liabilities while complying with the new regulations.

    Moreover, the ability to deduct remuneration for non-resident directors without restrictions could influence corporate governance and financial planning strategies.

    Kenyan changes to Permanent Establishments – Conclusion

    As Kenya’s tax landscape continues to evolve, staying abreast of legislative changes and understanding their implications will be crucial for multinational corporations seeking to maximize their operational efficiency and tax compliance in the country.

    Final thoughts

    If you have any queries on this article about the Kenyan changes to Permanent Establishments or any other tax matters in Kenya, then please get in touch

     

    Supreme Court of Pakistan Clarifies Tax Obligations under Pakistan-Netherlands DTT

    Supreme Court of Pakistan Clarifies Tax Obligations under Pakistan-Netherlands DTT

    Introduction

    The Supreme Court of Pakistan has delivered a key judgement in the Snamprogetti Engineering case, offering clarity on the contentious issue of what constitutes a permanent establishment (PE) and the consequent tax obligations of foreign entities providing services in Pakistan under the Pakistan-Netherlands Double Taxation Treaty (DTT).

    Case Background

    The case involved a Dutch-resident company, Snamprogetti Engineering, engaged by a Pakistani firm to deliver engineering services and procure spare parts over two years for a fertilizer complex project in Pakistan.

    The company filed its tax return, claiming exemption from income tax for its engineering services income based on Article 7 of the DTT, asserting it had no PE in Pakistan.

    Tax Authority’s Challenge

    The Assessing Officer (AO) contended that Snamprogetti had established a PE in Pakistan under paragraphs 3 and 4 of Article 5 of the DTT, due to its involvement in the project’s construction and engineering aspects and the necessity of its physical presence in Pakistan.

    This interpretation was initially contested and led to a series of appeals.

    Judicial Findings

    The Appellate Tribunal Inland Revenue (ATIR) initially sided with the AO, asserting the project’s indivisibility and exceeding the four-month threshold for constituting a PE.

    However, the Supreme Court’s analysis diverged, focusing on the specifics of Article 5 of the DTT and international tax principles.

    Supreme Court’s Verdict

    The Supreme Court found no evidence of the petitioner’s involvement in construction activities, rendering paragraph 3 of Article 5 irrelevant.

    It concurred with the Commissioner Appeals (CIRA) in calculating the service duration, emphasizing that breaks between service periods could be aggregated.

    If these periods totaled more than four months within a twelve-month span, a PE would be established.

    Nonetheless, since Snamprogetti’s personnel were present in Pakistan for only 97 days, falling short of the four-month criterion, the court concluded that the company did not constitute a PE under paragraph 4 of Article 5 of the DTT.

    Implications of the Ruling

    This landmark decision underscores the importance of accurately interpreting the terms of international tax treaties, particularly concerning the designation of a PE.

    It reinforces the principle that the aggregate service duration, interspersed with breaks, is crucial in determining the existence of a PE.

    The ruling provides significant relief and clarity to foreign companies engaged in similar contractual arrangements in Pakistan, confirming that the absence of a PE negates the local tax obligations on income derived from such services, provided the conditions of the applicable DTT are met.

    Conclusion

    The Supreme Court’s judgement is a definitive stance on the application of the Pakistan-Netherlands DTT to cases of foreign entities providing services in Pakistan.

    It establishes a clear precedent for evaluating the taxability of international companies’ operations in Pakistan, ensuring that tax obligations are adjudicated in strict accordance with the stipulated treaty provisions.

    Final thoughts

    If you have any queries about this article on this case and / or the Pakistan Netherlands double tax treaty, or any other Pakistani tax issues, then please get in touch.

    French Tax Court Curtails Attempts to Broaden WHT

    French Tax Court Curtails Attempts to Broaden WHT – Introduction

    In a landmark decision, the Conseil d’Etat, France’s highest tax court, has reined in attempts by the French tax administration to broaden the application of withholding tax on transactions involving French banks and foreign shareholders.

    The ruling came after the French Banking Association (Fédération Bancaire Française, FBF) successfully contested the tax administration’s position, which sought to expand the beneficial ownership requirements under certain conditions.

    Attempt to Broaden Withholding Tax Scope

    The controversy centered around the French tax administration’s interpretation of Article 119 bis-2 of the French General Tax Code.

    The administration issued guidance suggesting that withholding tax applies even if the recipient is based in France, as long as the income’s beneficial owner, or the entity with the right to freely dispose of the income, is domiciled or has a registered office outside France.

    This interpretation, targeting specific banking activities like temporary share acquisitions and certain derivatives transactions, was seen as an overreach by the banking sector.

    Banking Association’s Challenge and Court’s Ruling

    The FBF took legal action against this interpretation and two related rulings from 15 February 2023.

    The association argued that the tax administration’s comments and the rulings were ultra vires, meaning they went beyond the administration’s legal authority.

    On 8 December 2023, the Conseil d’Etat delivered its judgment, making two critical clarifications:

    Limitation on Withholding Tax Scope:

    The court specified that Article 119 bis-2 should not be construed to impose a withholding tax on distributions to a rights holder based in France, even if the funds are eventually remitted to someone considered the beneficial owner based outside France.

    Restrictions on Administrative Overreach:

    The court affirmed that unless the anti-abuse of rights procedure under Article L. 64 of the Tax Procedure Code is implemented, the tax administration cannot disregard the involvement of a French resident intermediary between the payer and a non-resident beneficial owner.

    Implications of the Ruling

    This decision is pivotal for the French banking industry and foreign investors involved in the French market.

    It clarifies the application of withholding tax and provides a more predictable framework for financial transactions involving foreign shareholders.

    The court’s ruling emphasizes the need for the tax administration to adhere strictly to the legislative framework without overstepping its bounds.

    It also underlines the importance of clearly defined rules in fostering a stable and transparent tax environment, crucial for international investment and financial operations.

    Conclusion

    The Conseil d’Etat’s ruling marks a significant turn in the ongoing discourse about the scope of withholding tax in France, particularly concerning transactions involving French banks and foreign entities.

    It underscores the judiciary’s role in maintaining the balance between tax collection efforts and the need for a clear, predictable legal environment for domestic and international economic activities.

    Final thoughts

    For further insights or queries on this development or broader French tax matters, feel free to reach out and engage in the discussion.

    HMRC’s Updated Guidance on Overseas Entities and US LLCs

    HMRC’s Updated Guidance on Overseas Entities and US LLCs – Introduction

    On December 6, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) announced critical updates to its International Manual, specifically focusing on the UK tax treatment of overseas entities.

    This includes Delaware and other US limited liability companies (LLCs).

    This revision, reflected in sections INTM180000 and INTM180050 follows the seminal case of Anson and aims to provide clarity in the complex world of international taxation.

    Key Points of the HMRC Update

    Tax Characterization of Foreign Entities

    HMRC’s distinction between “opaque” and “transparent” entities is pivotal.

    Transparent entities subject UK resident members to immediate taxation on income or gains, whereas opaque entities are taxed directly with members taxed on distributions.

    New Sections Added

    INTM180040: Elaborates on HMRC’s process in determining a foreign entity’s tax status.

    INTM180050: Reflects on the Anson case, usually treating Delaware (and other US) LLCs as opaque.

    INTM180060: Offers guidance on non-statutory clearances for specific entity cases.

    Interpreting “Transparent” and “Opaque”

    These terms, while not legislative, are crucial in applying the law to the facts of a case, with the updated guidance emphasizing this application.

    Concept of “Entity Shielding”

    This concept plays a significant role in determining an entity’s status, focusing on the entity’s legal personality and its capacity to own assets and bear liabilities independently of its members.

    Post-Anson Treatment of US LLCs

    Despite the Anson case favoring transparency for Delaware LLCs, HMRC continues to generally view US LLCs, especially from Delaware, as opaque, although it does consider individual case specifics.

    Factors from Delaware Law Influencing HMRC’s View

    HMRC’s stance is influenced by several aspects of Delaware law, particularly focusing on the LLC’s role in business operations, ownership of assets, responsibility for debts, and the distribution of profits.

    Update to INTM180020

    Now labelled “How HMRC arrives at a general view of foreign entities,” this section provides a more detailed approach, replacing the old INTM180010.

    Implications for Tax Professionals and Entities

    This update is a significant development for tax professionals and entities operating across borders.

    It underscores HMRC’s nuanced approach to international tax rules, particularly in light of evolving global tax landscapes and landmark legal rulings like Anson.

    HMRC’s Updated Guidance on Overseas Entities and US LLCs Conclusion

    HMRC’s recent update reaffirms the complexities inherent in international taxation, especially concerning the UK tax status of non-UK entities and US LLCs.

    Final thoughts

    If you have any comments or queries on this article on HMRC’s Updated Guidance on Overseas Entities and US LLCs or UK and US tax matters more generally, then please get in touch.

    CJEU Rules in Favour of Amazon and Luxembourg in State Aid Case

    Amazon and Luxembourg state aid case – Introduction

    On 14 December 14, 2023, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) delivered an eagerly awaited judgment in favor of Amazon and Luxembourg, upholding the May 2021 decision of the General Court.

    This judgment dismissed the European Commission’s appeal, confirming that Amazon did not receive unlawful state aid from Luxembourg.

    The CJEU’s judgment is definitive and marks a significant moment in the ongoing discussions around state aid and tax rulings within the EU.

    The Facts

    The case centered around the arm’s length nature of a royalty paid by a Luxembourg operating company (LuxOpCo) to a Luxembourg partnership (LuxSCS).

    The payment was for the use of intangibles like technology, marketing-related intangibles, and customer data.

    In 2003, the Luxembourg tax authorities had confirmed the arm’s length nature of these deductible royalty payments, based on a transfer pricing analysis using the transactional net margin method (TNMM).

    European Commission’s Stance and General Court’s Judgment

    The European Commission had challenged this arrangement, arguing that LuxOpCo’s tax base was unduly reduced, effectively constituting state aid.

    However, the General Court identified factual and legal errors in the Commission’s analysis and annulled its decision, a position now affirmed by the CJEU.

    CJEU’s Judgment

    The CJEU agreed with the General Court’s conclusion but based its decision on different grounds.

    Echoing its approach in the Fiat judgment of November 2022, the CJEU held that the OECD transfer pricing guidelines could not be part of the “reference framework” for assessing normal taxation in Luxembourg.

    This is because Luxembourg law did not explicitly refer to these guidelines.

    Thus, the European Commission’s decision was fundamentally flawed.

    The CJEU concluded that even though the General Court had used an incorrect reference framework, its ultimate decision to annul the Commission’s decision was correct.

    The CJEU, therefore, chose to rule directly and confirm the annulment of the European Commission’s decision.

    Implications for Other Cases and Taxpayers

    This judgment aligns with previous rulings in the Fiat and ENGIE cases, underscoring that the European Commission cannot enforce non-binding OECD transfer pricing guidelines over national legal frameworks.

    However, these guidelines may still be relevant if they are explicitly referenced in national laws.

    The judgment also has implications for the pending appeal in the Apple case, which similarly involves intragroup profit allocation and the definition of the correct reference framework.

    Additionally, it influences other ongoing formal investigations, although details on these cases remain non-public.

    Amazon and Luxembourg state aid case – Conclusion

    The CJEU’s decision marks a crucial development in the landscape of EU state aid law, particularly concerning the application of transfer pricing rules and the boundaries of the European Commission’s powers.

    It highlights the importance of national legal frameworks in determining the arm’s length principle and sets a precedent for future cases involving similar issues.

     

    Final thoughts

    If you have any queries about this article on the Amazon and Luxembourg state aid case, or Luxembourg tax matters in general, then please get in touch.