Fiscal subject related
Starting January 1, 2026, the UAE will prohibit the import, production, and trade of single-use plastic products, building on the 2024 plastic bag ban as part of a phased strategy. This move reflects a strong commitment to environmental care, aiming for a future free of waste and pollution.
The call is out for UAE residents to cut down on unnecessary plastic, taking a main role in achieving the nation’s goal. This effort seeks to foster thriving communities and a resilient environment, safeguarding land and sea for current and future generations. The 2025 theme focuses on tackling plastic pollution, urging everyone to act.
In 2024, Dubai and other emirates banned single-use plastic bags, stirrers, Styrofoam containers, table covers, cotton swabs, straws, and Styrofoam cups, adding a 25 fils charge. From January 1, 2026, this extends to single-use plastic cups, lids, cutlery, food containers, and plates.
Other news from Other countries
Important Changes to UAE VAT Registration and Deregistration
Other countries
Author: Ema Stamenković
Cabinet Decision No. 100 of 2024 updates VAT registration and deregistration processes in the UAE. Key changes include updated thresholds for mandatory and voluntary registration, streamlined deregistration procedures, revised tax group rules, and new exemption conditions. Businesses must reassess their compliance to avoid penalties and ensure efficient VAT management ahead of 2025. The processes... Read more
How Tourists Can Claim a VAT Refund in Thailand
Other countries
Author: Ljubica Blagojević
Tourists in Thailand can get a VAT refund on goods taken out of the country within 60 days. You must shop at approved stores, spend at least 2,000 THB (52.64 Euros) per store per day, keep receipts, and get a P.P.10 form. At the airport, have customs inspect your items and then claim your refund after immigration. Refund amounts depend on how much you spend, and luxury items require extra checks.... Read more
Introduction to New Zealand’s New e-Invoicing Requirement for Large Suppliers
Other countries
Author: Ema Stamenković
New Zealand's Government Procurement Rules will require large suppliers to issue e-invoices for domestic transactions from 1 January 2027. This is aimed at promoting efficiency and transparency, and may exclude international suppliers and foreign currency transactions. The rule applies to domestic transactions in New Zealand dollars, excluding international suppliers and cross-border transactions.... Read more
Colombia Outlines New Tax Policy for Electronic Transactions
Other countries
Author: Ema Stamenković
Colombia's tax agency proposed a 1.5% withholding tax on electronic payments, exempting credit/debit transactions and certain natural persons. Decree 1,066 enables information sharing for determining tax obligations. A statement outlining plans to implement a new withholding tax on specific electronic payments was released by Colombia's tax agency. Recently, a draft regulation was made available... Read more
Vietnam’s Guidelines for Dispute Resolution in E-Commerce (Expected)
Other countries
Author: Ema Stamenković
Article 52 mandates e-commerce platforms establish accessible complaint systems for users, ensuring timely, fair processing based on evidence. Owners must inform complainants of decisions and resolution options. Disputes must follow published contract terms and relevant laws, utilizing negotiation or mediation methods. The Law on E-Commerce (the "Draft Law"), which is anticipated to be presented t... Read more
Handling FTA Audits in the UAE
Other countries
Author: Ema Stamenković
Understanding FTA audits is critical for UAE businesses to ensure compliance with VAT, corporate tax, and zakat regulations. Audits trigger from discrepancies in filings, profit fluctuations, unusual refund claims, and more. Legal frameworks grant FTA broad audit powers, with timelines for assessments typically being up to five years. Businesses must maintain extensive records, retain documents fo... Read more
Tax Compliance and Audits in Saudi Arabia
Other countries
Author: Ema Stamenković
Saudi businesses now face intensified scrutiny from ZATCA regarding VAT, corporate tax, and zakat filings due to evolving tax frameworks in the Gulf. Audits are risk-driven, focusing on discrepancies and unusual patterns. ZATCA reviews comprehensive financial records and mandates adherence to specific documentation. Audit types include desk, field, and electronic audits. Penalties for non-complian... Read more