MRA takes the lead in AEOI implementation
Tax administration
Under the auspices of the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF), a delegation from the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) is currently in Mauritius to glean insights from the Mauritian experience in implementing the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI). This follows a similar initiative where the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) hosted a delegation from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) a few weeks ago.
AEOI, operating under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS), involves systematic and periodic transmission of “bulk” taxpayer information from the source country to the residence country, covering various income categories such as account balances, dividends, interest, royalties, salaries, and pensions.
The benefits of AEOI are manifold, including deterring non-compliance, encouraging voluntary adherence, and promoting complete disclosure. It enhances tax revenues, fairness in tax payment, and aids in detecting tax evasion while improving tax transparency.
MRA, having implemented AEOI five years ago, boasts a team of in-house IT professionals, a robust tax system, and a proven legal framework. The International Taxation Section (ITS) at MRA has been a pivotal force in the AEOI project, collaborating with various departments to ensure seamless implementation.
The exchange of information under CRS primarily involves financial institutions like banks, custodian entities, specified insurance companies, and investment entities. These entities exchange financial account information with their account holders.
MRA’s dedication to transparency is evident through the publication of a CRS Guidance Note and a dedicated webpage on its website, providing comprehensive information and FAQs. Through CRS exchanges, Mauritius gains financial account details of its tax residents from partner countries, enhancing visibility on foreign assets.
Mauritius, among the first African countries to implement CRS, has undergone rigorous assessments by OECD, securing positive results in legislative, confidentiality, data safeguard, and effectiveness practice assessments. Recognized as a benchmark in CRS implementation, Mauritius frequently shares its expertise on international platforms, including the recent OECD model manual launch for CRS audits.
The ongoing Peer Country Learning Workshop and Technical Assistance Program with Rwanda reaffirms MRA’s leadership role in tax administration and underscores its pivotal role in promoting a fair and transparent tax environment in Africa.
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 8 March 2024
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