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  • Tag Archive: Global Minimum Tax

    1. Canada and Global Minimum Tax implementation: A closer look

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      Canada and Global Minimum Tax implementation – Introduction

      The wheels of international tax reform continue to turn as Canada takes significant strides to implement the OECD’s Pillar Two global minimum tax (GMT) recommendations.

      On August 4, 2023, the Department of Finance unveiled draft legislation outlining the implementation of two pivotal elements of Pillar Two: the income inclusion rule (IIR) and a qualified domestic minimum top-up tax (QDMTT).

      The aim is to align Canada’s tax landscape with the evolving international consensus on curbing tax base erosion and profit shifting.

      Let’s have a look at the key aspects of this draft legislation, along with insights into the broader implications it holds.

      Pillar Two at a Glance: IIR and QDMTT Implementation

      The draft legislation holds particular importance for multinational enterprises (MNEs) as it focuses on two crucial aspects of the GMT framework:

      • the income inclusion rule (IIR); and
      • the qualified domestic minimum top-up tax (QDMTT).

      These provisions are designed to ensure that MNEs pay a minimum level of tax on their global income, irrespective of their jurisdiction of operation

      The income inclusion rule (IIR)

      The IIR, closely aligned with the OECD’s model rules and the accompanying commentary, obliges a qualifying MNE group to include a top-up amount in its income.

      This amount is determined by evaluating the group’s effective tax rate against the stipulated minimum rate of 15%.

      Notably, the draft legislation incorporates mechanisms for calculating this top-up amount, encompassing factors such as excess profits, substance-based income exclusions, and adjusted covered taxes.

      The goal is to prevent instances where MNEs might be subject to lower tax rates in certain jurisdictions.

      The qualified domestic minimum top-up tax (QDMTT)

      The QDMTT, on the other hand, allows jurisdictions to implement a domestic top-up tax to align with the principles of Pillar Two.

      This is aimed at domestic entities within the scope of Pillar Two, counterbalancing the global minimum tax liability.

      The intricacies of the QDMTT provision, including computations and adjustments, are outlined in the draft legislation to ensure an encompassing and fair application.

      Administration of GMTA

      To effectively implement the Global Minimum Tax Act (GMTA), the draft legislation covers a spectrum of administrative facets.

      These include provisions for assessments, appeals, enforcement, audit, collection, penalties, and other vital components to ensure the smooth functioning of the new tax regime.

      As part of compliance measures, the legislation introduces the requirement of filing a GloBE information return (GIR) within 15 months of the fiscal year’s end, with potential penalties for non-compliance.

      It’s important to note that the legislation doesn’t shy away from significant penalties for non-compliance.

      Failure to file the required GIR within the stipulated timeframe could result in penalties of up to $1 million. Moreover, penalties may also be imposed as a percentage of taxes owed under the GMTA for not filing Part II or Part IV returns, adding a layer of urgency to adhere to these provisions.

      How does GMTA live with the existing tax framework?

      One of the central themes that emerge from the draft legislation is the intricate interplay between the GMTA and Canada’s existing tax framework.

      While the legislation attempts to bridge these two domains, certain aspects remain to be ironed out.

      Notably, the interaction between the GMTA and provisions within the Income Tax Act (ITA) raises questions about the allocation of losses or tax attributions under the ITA to offset taxes owing under the GMTA.

      Additionally, the draft legislation is deliberately silent on the specifics of this interaction, particularly concerning issues like Canadian foreign affiliate and foreign accrual property regimes.

      As businesses and professionals delve into the consultation process, these areas of ambiguity are likely to be focal points of discussion, aiming to ensure a harmonious alignment between the new regime and the existing tax landscape.

      Looking ahead

      The consultation process for the draft legislation is underway, with the Department of Finance welcoming feedback until September 29, 2023.

      During this period, stakeholders, including businesses, tax professionals, and policymakers, have the opportunity to contribute insights and perspectives to shape the final legislation.

      The complex and evolving nature of international taxation underscores the importance of robust consultation, as the new rules have far-reaching implications for cross-border businesses.

      Canada and Global Minimum Tax – Conclusion

      Canada’s proactive approach to aligning its tax laws with the global consensus on minimum taxation is a significant stride.

      As the draft legislation undergoes scrutiny and refinement, it’s essential to recognize its implications not only for multinational enterprises but also for the broader tax landscape.

      The interplay between the GMTA and the existing tax regime will be closely watched, highlighting the intricate path of international tax reform and the commitment of nations to creating a fair and balanced tax environment.

      If you have any queries about this article on Canada and Global Minimum Tax, or Canadian tax matters in general, then please get in touch.

      The content of this article is provided for educational and information purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as tax or legal advice. We recommend you seek formal tax and legal advice before taking, or refraining from, any action based on the contents of this article..

    2. EU agreement on Pillar Two / Minimum Taxation Directive

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      Introduction – EU agreement on Pillar Two

      Eventually, after a number of failed attempts, the EU has reached agreement on the Minimum Taxation Agreement.

      The 27 European Union Member States reached agreement on the 12 December 2022.

      The agreement clears the way for the implementation of a minimum level of taxation for the largest companies. These reforms are also known as the Pillar Two or Minimum Taxation Directive.

      The Directive has to be transposed into Member States’ national law by the end of 2023.

      What is it?

      Broadly, the agreed Directive reflects the global OECD agreement with some adjustments.

      The new agreement will apply to any large group of companies whether domestic or international. The rules will apply to such organisations with aggregate revenues of over €750 million a year. As such, it will only apply to the biggest companies around the globe.

      It should be noted that it is necessary for either the parent company or a subsidiary of the group to be situated within the EU.

      The rate of the minimum tax

      The effective tax rate is established for a location by dividing the taxes paid by the entities in the jurisdiction by their income.

      Where this calculation results in a rate of tax below 15% then the group must ‘top-up’ the tax paid such that the overall rate is 15%.

      What’s next?

      The development means that the EU will be a pioneer around Pillar Two. However, it seems highly likely that other jurisdictions (I.e non-EU) will follow suit.

      Further, by the end of this month (Jan 2023), it is expected that the OECD will publish its own guidelines for Pillar Two. Again, these should act as a catalyst for wider adoption of Pillar Two internationally.

      In addition, it is expected that they will shed some light on some of the key outstanding issues around how the US rules (such as US GILTI rules) will conform with Pillar Two.

      If you have any queries about the EU agreement on Pillar Two, or international tax matters generally, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

      The content of this article is provided for educational and information purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as tax or legal advice. We recommend you seek formal tax and legal advice before taking, or refraining from, any action based on the contents of this article