Wednesday, 14 December 2022

UAE adopts Transfer Pricing Regulations

 

A corporate tax regime without transfer pricing provisions would be spineless. Transfer pricing is detailed and mention in the Federal Decree released on 9 December 2022. While we are undertaking detailed research on transfer pricing law in the UAE, here is our first take on the transfer pricing law in the UAE.

  • TP Regulation to apply to UAE Mainland as well as Free Zones.
  • A Qualified Free Zone can continue to be qualified for 0% corporate taxes if it meets transfer pricing regulations and documentation. This means that without appropriate TP, a Free Zone can lose benefits.
  • Arm's Length Principle (ALP) finds its place in the UAE Tax Decree.
  • 5 methods to benchmark transactions with Related Parties prescribed that are in line with the global approach
  • 6th method available, where none of the above methods could be used to derive arm's length results
  • Choice of method depends on Contractual terms, Characterisation, Economic Circumstances, FAR analysis and Business Strategies
  • The Most Appropriate Method (best suitable) concept used rather than Most Preferred Methods (hierarchy)
  • The corresponding adjustment concept is brought in if a foreign tax administration makes adjustments to the ALP of the taxpayer.
  • The concept of Associated Enterprises is subsumed by Related Parties with the threshold of 50% (In India - 26%)
  • TP Documentation provisions are brought in, with 30 days provided for submission to tax authorities when called for
  • Concept of Master File and Local file - thresholds to be declared
  • The provision for the Transfer Pricing Disclosure form has been brought in (Similar to Form 3CEB - Transfer Pricing certificate)
  • The ability to determine or exercise significant influence over the conduct of the Business and affairs is also covered in Related Parties

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