General information
Key Changes
- New compliance date: December 31, 2026 (previously March 14, 2026).
- Format requirement: Taxpayers must issue e-invoices in XML, JSON, or other BIR-approved formats through an accredited invoicing system.
Affected Taxpayers
The extension applies to all taxpayers required to implement e-invoicing, including:
- Businesses engaged in e-commerce or online transactions;
- Entities under the Large Taxpayers Service (LTS);
- Registered Large Taxpayers;
- Users of Computerized Accounting Systems (CAS), Computerized Books of Accounts (CBA), or other invoicing software.
Ongoing Sales Data Reporting
The regulation reiterates that sales data reporting to the BIR will commence only once the BIR’s central system is operational to receive and process such data.
This extension provides additional preparation time for in-scope taxpayers to align their systems with BIR accreditation and format requirements. It also signals that the BIR’s own e-invoicing infrastructure is still under development, delaying full enforcement of real-time data reporting.
Other news from Other countries
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
China finalizes unified VAT system — new 2026 law modernizes tax framework
Other countries
Author: Ljubica Blagojević
China has completed a decades-long shift to a unified VAT system, replacing the former Business Tax (BT). Following OECD recommendations, reforms from 2012–2016 integrated services into VAT, culminating in the VAT Law, passed in 2024 and effective January 1, 2026. The law introduces three VAT rates (13%, 9%, 6%), backed by new implementation rules, the Golden Tax Phase IV system, and nationwide e-... Read more
South Africa: SARS Drafts E-Invoice Laws, Prepares for Mandatory Real-Time Reporting
Other countries
Author: Ljubica Blagojević
On 16 August 2025, South Africa’s Ministry of Finance and SARS published the Draft 2025 Tax Laws Amendment Bill, introducing definitions of electronic invoice, electronic report, and an interoperability framework for secure real-time tax data exchange. A final bill is expected in 2026, with SARS also exploring a Continuous Transaction Control (CTC) model. E-invoicing is currently voluntary but subject to detailed requirements since December 2021. The move signals a shift toward mandatory e-invoicing, aligning with global trends. Businesses should prepare early by upgrading ERP systems, ensuring data quality, and partnering with certified providers to gain efficiency and avoid compliance risks. Read more