Latest news with #GlobalMinimumTax
ABC News
3 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
Australia to miss out on tax top-up from multinationals as Trump ends OECD reform
Australia could miss out on significant revenue from US multinational companies operating here, after the G7 "caved" to Donald Trump, says the man who spearheaded negotiations on a global minimum tax rate. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) former director of tax, Pascal Saint Amans, says Australia will no longer be able to apply a top-up tax if a US firm pays less than a 15 per cent tax rate. It comes after the US president undid more than a decade of progress towards multinationals paying their fair share of tax, striking a deal to exempt America from a worldwide corporate tax floor. In 2021, about 140 countries, including Australia, signed up to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) "Global Minimum Tax" deal, a plan that's been years in the making. These countries had, in principle, agreed to a set of rules for a 15 per cent global minimum tax. This was aimed at helping countries like Australia collect more tax from digital tech giants like Google, Apple, Microsoft, Facebook, Amazon and others by applying that minimum tax rate. The implementation of the law in Australia was expected to increase receipts by $370 million and increase payments by $111 million over the five years from 2022-23. But neither the US nor China implemented the tax rules. And, to convince US President Donald Trump to drop his threat to impose a "revenge tax" in a major spending bill, G7 countries agreed to exempt US companies from the rules. "What is clear is that [G7] countries have caved," argues Pascal Saint-Amans, who spearheaded the negotiations that culminated in the tax agreement worldwide. Mr Saint-Amans says the deal protects American companies. "The significance of it, the magnitude of it, is still unknown — to be seen. But the new system is unfair, discriminatory against non-US companies and, by itself, it kind of undermines the global minimum tax." Mr Saint-Amans says the rules were supposed to stop a race to the bottom. He says they would have applied to all multinational enterprise groups with an annual global revenue of at least EUR 750 million ($1.34 billion). But now it will be much harder for tax administrators, including the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), to tax US companies that operate in Australia. While Australia has avoided implementing a Digital Services Tax, it has been taxing foreign digital companies in other ways. Australia collects 10 per cent goods and services tax, or GST, on digital services provided to Australian companies, including streaming platforms and app subscriptions. The ATO has also been pursuing several multinationals using its Diverted Profits Tax (DPT) legislation powers. Known unofficially as the "Google tax", the DPT was introduced under former Liberal treasurer Joe Hockey, and allows the ATO to hit companies it deems to be engaging in "contrived arrangements" with a 40 per cent tax on all profits. Mr Saint-Amans said the ATO would now need to make sure that investments by multinationals in Australia "are not sheltered in the intermediary countries where you would have very low taxation". While there are still "tax loopholes", the one silver lining, he says, is that "we're no longer facing what the world was facing prior to the OECD work". "The international tax architecture needs to be revised, to better tax digital companies," he said. "But overall progress has been made. We're no longer in the case where you're a multinational company, [and] you pay taxes nowhere. … the days of zero tax are coming to an end." He says even the Trump administration recognises that there should be some form of minimum tax applied. "The minimum is not the same for the US and for the rest of the world. But there is some principle of a minimum tax," he said. Mr Saint-Amans says because of preferential tax treatment for US companies, the G7 tax backflip could cause Australian companies to move their headquarters to the US — or at least contemplate it. "And this is exactly what we will have to watch and monitor in the coming weeks and coming months." Now Australian startups are questioning the value of staying here. Maria Baker is the founder of Nobody's Princess, a startup that sells women's snow gear to markets globally, including in the United States. She says the situation disadvantages local startups and causes them to rethink whether they should keep their brands local. "Regardless of whether you're a big business owner or even just a consumer, it is frustrating to see essentially the rich getting richer." Ms Baker's business is based in Melbourne, and she is now considering moving offshore. "Do I actually have to go to the US and set up my business and be a US-based business?" she asks. "I'd rather not do that because I think there's this really big beauty about being an Australian business and, you know, putting an Australian brand on the stage." Anish Sinha is the co-founder and chief operating tech of startup, UpCover, which tailors insurance for small businesses. The company was founded in 2019 and has raised almost $20 million in debt and equity. Mr Sinha says insurance is "a highly regulated space, and we play by the rules". "We pay our fair share, and we expect others to do that as well, and so hearing about something like [the tax backflip] makes us feel like the big end of the town is not willing to pay their fair share." He says many Australian founders look to sell into the US market because it's the largest market in the world. He says there's still a lot of "regulatory uncertainty and flux" in the US, so he's not made the decision to move headquarters just yet. But the tax situation "does impact how we look at being headquartered in one country or another". "It impacts how we ultimately look at competitiveness long-term," Mr Sinha said. "It determines how our customers think about us being based in one geography or another. And we would want our business to be favoured by the tax jurisdiction we're based in." Tax experts are concerned that Australia could lose more revenue now that US multinationals are exempt from the global tax deal. Jason Ward, principal analyst at the Centre for International Corporate Tax Accountability and Research, says the OECD global minimum tax was meant to set a floor to eliminate a race to the bottom and to set in place a system where every company everywhere was paying at least some tax. "It was set at a very low rate, which is 15 per cent, but that was the rate that was needed to bring the world on board. And really it was the Biden administration that really broke the loggerheads on this," Mr Ward said. "It's a terrible caving into Trump's demands here, and really unnecessary, and a major step backward for international tax reform. "Trump is essentially running a protection racket for larger US multinationals that most people already know are the most aggressive in dodging their tax obligations on the profits, the vast profits they make in Australia and around the world." He noted Australia had already passed legislation to implement Pillar 2 — or the global minimum tax — and there was an expectation that this would bring in some revenue. "This basically sends a clear signal to the likes of US big pharma companies, US big tech that 'It's okay. Trump's got their back'. And so this is not collecting extra tax for people in the United States. This is basically giving US multinationals a free pass to dodge taxes in the United States and in Australia and around the world." Mr Ward says with the G7 tax backflip allowing the US to pull out of global negotiations, "we're going to see a trend towards these global discussions happening at the United Nations level". "We're well advanced in terms of the development of the UN tax convention," he said. "And I think we're going to start seeing a lot more regional action to shore up the global tax systems to make sure that multinationals don't continue to steal the funding that we need to fund our healthcare, our hospitals, our public schools, education, and the infrastructure that we all need. "I think countries need to stand up and protect their own sovereignty and their own rights and collect the tax revenues that are due from multinational profits in their own jurisdiction." The Tax Justice Network's Mark Zirnsak also fears "Australia is likely to miss out on revenue that it otherwise would have counted on". "It also just creates an unequal playing field again further where these companies who are not paying taxes get an unfair advantage over companies who are doing the right thing and paying the taxes as they should be paying them," Mr Zirnsak said. He says Australia should now join the move to set up a UN tax convention. "This is where the action now needs to move to," he said. "It will work on a two-thirds majority for substantive matters, so it won't be possible for certain individual countries to derail or block it. "The other thing we probably need to keep in mind is that the Trump administration only has one more term and if there were to be a change in US administration, we might find a far more cooperative administration that thinks it is actually in the interest of everybody to have a more reasonable and fair tax global system."
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Grant Thornton bolsters UK tax practice with new partners
Grant Thornton has strengthened its tax and transfer pricing services in the UK with the appointment of two new partners, Gil Oglesby and Duncan Nott. In the new role, Gil Oglesby will oversee the transformation of the firm's tax function, aiming to optimise tax technology, data, processes, and personnel deployment. Previously, he led Direct Tax & Transformation at ASOS, managing all direct tax compliance and reporting, as well as spearheading tax technology and transformation initiatives. Duncan Nott, with over 25 years of transfer pricing expertise, joins as Transfer Pricing partner. His experience spans various industries and includes advising government bodies on transfer pricing matters. Nott's role at Grant Thornton will involve aiding clients with practical transfer pricing solutions and preparing them for the operational and governance aspects of transfer pricing policy. Additionally, Duncan Nott will collaborate with Grant Thornton's network of Pillar Two specialists to assist clients in navigating the new Global Minimum Tax regulations under the OECD's Pillar Two framework. This tax is designed for large multinationals and represents a significant shift in international tax compliance. Grant Thornton UK Tax head Hazel Platt said: 'It is a pleasure to welcome both Gil and Duncan to the firm. They both bring outstanding experience in their respective areas of expertise that will further enhance our market-leading tax offering. 'They are joining the firm at a crucial time for clients as they face a fast-changing tax outlook, both domestically and cross-border. Ensuring firms have the best processes and protocols in place has never been more important. Having Gil and Duncan on our team means we are even better positioned to help our clients meet those challenges.' Grant Thornton UK, which is part of a global network that employs 76,000 employees across more than 150 countries, is led by over 200 partners and employs over 5,500 professionals. Last week, Grant Thornton appointed Storme Sixeas as the leader of Tax Legislative Affairs in its Washington National Tax Office. Sixeas brings over 20 years of experience in federal tax policy and will provide strategic tax legislative guidance to clients. "Grant Thornton bolsters UK tax practice with new partners" was originally created and published by International Accounting Bulletin, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Zawya
16-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
KPMG's Annual Tax Summit 2025: Navigating the future of taxation in Qatar
Doha, Qatar – KPMG in Qatar successfully hosted its Annual Tax Summit 2025, bringing together finance and tax professionals to explore the latest developments shaping Qatar's tax landscape. Held at the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Msheireb, the summit provided a platform for in-depth discussions on Global Minimum Tax (GMT), recent developments from the General Tax Authority (GTA), Transfer Pricing, Corporate Tax strategies, Tax refund opportunities and expected indirect tax updates. Anand Krishan, Director – International Tax, KPMG in Qatar, provided a detailed analysis of Global Minimum Tax (GMT) implementation across the GCC, discussing its impact on businesses, available deductions and safe harbors, and the critical steps organizations need to take to prepare for legislative changes. Haythem Zayed, Tax Partner, KPMG in Qatar, gave an updated overview of Qatar's tax objection and appeal process, outlining key procedural steps and the enforceability of tax liabilities. He highlighted the growing importance of compliance and risk mitigation, particularly in light of potential penalties that could significantly affect businesses. Khalil Khbabez, Associate Director – Tax, KPMG in Qatar, shared insights into recent tax appeal cases and the implications of asset seizures. He examined emerging enforcement trends, current challenges faced by taxpayers, and effective strategies to mitigate risks and ensure regulatory compliance. Uma Patankar, Associate Director – Transfer Pricing, and Diego Tay, Manager – Transfer Pricing, KPMG in Qatar, explored Transfer Pricing challenges in Qatar, offering best practices for audit defense and robust governance for all entities. Their session also highlighted areas for improvement in Transfer Pricing regulations across Qatar and the GCC. Arsalan Khan, Tax Manager, KPMG in Qatar, presented key regional tax updates, emphasizing the rapid evolution of taxation across the region. His session reinforced the importance of proactive tax planning to optimize tax positions amid shifting regulations. Imran Ayub, Tax Director, KPMG in Qatar, provided a detailed overview of tax refunds, explaining the different types of refunds available, the application process, and essential documentation. He shared key strategies to help businesses maximize their claims and enhance tax efficiency. Nurlan Sadraddinzade, Associate Director – Indirect Tax & Tax Technology, KPMG Qatar, led a session on indirect taxation, covering VAT implementation timelines, excise tax on sugary drinks, and updates to the GCC's 12-digit unified customs tariff system. His insights helped businesses understand how to navigate these upcoming changes effectively. Year after year, the KPMG Annual Tax Summit continues to be a hub for knowledge and collaboration, bringing together key stakeholders to share expertise, exchange ideas, and tackle emerging challenges. The event consistently leaves a resounding impact on attendees, equipping them with the tools needed to stay ahead in an ever-changing regulatory environment. KPMG remains committed to empowering organizations with forward-thinking strategies for long-term success. For more information, please contact: Huda Ibrahim – hudai@ Bassel Abou Ayash – babouayash@ For additional details about KPMG in Qatar and our privacy policy, visit About KPMG in Qatar KPMG is a global organization of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG is the brand under which the member firms of KPMG International Limited ('KPMG International') operate and provide professional services. 'KPMG' is used to refer to individual member firms within the KPMG organization or to one or more member firms collectively. KPMG firms operate in 142 countries and territories with more than 275,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. Each KPMG member firm is responsible for its own obligations and liabilities. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients. For more detail about our structure, please visit
Emirates 24/7
13-02-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
International Tax Forum explores innovative mechanisms to deal with global tax challenges, opportunities
Thought leaders, economic experts, government officials and private sector representatives discussed a series of pivotal issues impacting the global tax landscape, including in-depth discussions on the OECD's Global Minimum Tax, at the International, during the International Tax Forum (ITF), organised by the Ministry of Finance. Held as part of the World Governments Summit 2025, which runs from 11th to 13th February in Dubai under the theme 'Shaping Future Governments', the forum explored the importance of OECD's Pillar II rules in addressing the challenges of base erosion and profit shifting, and ensuring that multinational companies are subject to minimum tax rates. Participants highlighted such reform's role, not only in contributing to enhancing tax justice but also in supporting the stability of the global economy and achieving a balance between advanced and emerging economies. The forum also discussed mechanisms for exchanging tax information and their role in combating tax evasion and enhancing transparency, noting that international cooperation in this field is a key pillar for building effective and sustainable tax systems. Discussions also touched on e-invoicing as a modern tool capable of improving the efficiency of tax systems and reducing administrative burdens on companies, thereby promoting the digital transformation of economies. Regarding the future of taxation, participants focused on the challenges posed by the digital economy, such as the emergence of new business models and the rise of e-commerce. Experts called for the need to develop innovative and proactive tax policies that keep pace with these transformations, while stressing the importance of cooperation between governments and the private sector to ensure the sustainability and simplicity of tax systems. In his opening remarks, Younis Haji Al Khouri, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, said, "The ITF presents an opportunity to foster international dialogue on issues reshaping the global tax system. Hosting the forum comes at a time when the international tax system is witnessing major transformations. Such rapid economic transformations, added to a growing digitisation wave, pose unprecedented challenges and opportunities that require innovative responses and effective international cooperation." "Among the most prominent initiatives leading global efforts to reform the international tax system and achieve tax justice is the OECD Global Minimum Tax or Pillar II rule, which represents a pivotal step to ensure minimum taxes for multinational companies. In addition to such measures, the forum focused on other important and evolving tax issues, including the exchange of tax information, electronic invoicing mechanisms, and the future of taxes in light of digital transformations," he added. Al Khouri concluded, 'Today, we stand at the threshold of a new phase that requires proactive vision to navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by the digital economy. Hence, the forum aimed to discuss practical solutions and future policies that will ensure the sustainability of tax systems globally. Achieving this sustainability requires the concerted efforts of governments, international institutions and the private sector.' Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Hi Dubai
13-02-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
International Tax Forum Explores Global Tax Reforms at WGS 2025
Dubai hosted the International Tax Forum (ITF) as part of the World Governments Summit 2025, where thought leaders, economic experts, and government officials convened to discuss the evolving global tax landscape. Organized by the UAE Ministry of Finance, the forum focused on the OECD's Global Minimum Tax and broader tax reforms aimed at fostering economic stability and justice. Key discussions revolved around the OECD's Pillar II rules, which seek to curb base erosion and profit shifting while ensuring multinational corporations adhere to minimum tax rates. Experts emphasized the significance of these reforms in balancing the interests of both advanced and emerging economies, reinforcing global economic stability. The forum also tackled tax transparency, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in exchanging tax information to combat tax evasion. Additionally, e-invoicing emerged as a transformative tool, streamlining tax systems, reducing administrative burdens, and accelerating digital transformation in economies worldwide. Amid the rise of the digital economy, experts explored challenges such as evolving business models and the expansion of e-commerce. They underscored the urgency of developing innovative tax policies that align with these rapid changes while advocating for stronger collaboration between governments and the private sector. Younis Haji Al Khouri, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, emphasized the forum's role in shaping international tax policies. 'The ITF presents an opportunity to foster international dialogue on issues reshaping the global tax system. As digitization accelerates, it is imperative to adopt proactive policies that ensure sustainability and fairness,' he stated. Al Khouri reiterated the OECD's Pillar II framework as a crucial step in global tax reform, alongside discussions on tax information exchange, electronic invoicing, and the broader implications of digital transformations. He stressed the need for a concerted global effort to build sustainable tax systems that adapt to economic shifts and technological advancements. News Source: Emirates News Agency
