BEPS proposals address intangibles cost contribution arrangements

 
Multinational enterprises involved in the development and use of intangibles under cost contribution arrangements (CCAs) should note the 29 April 2015 discussion draft proposals under Action 8 of the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) Action Plan. The discussion draft proposes fundamental modifications to Chapter VIII of the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines.

The primary goal is to ensure that contributions are commensurate with the benefits received under a CCA. This is a difficult task when the contributions are complex and cannot be valued at cost. The guidance suggested by the OECD, although it acknowledges the need to achieve simplification, may nevertheless increase complexity and disputes.