VAT/GST and Sales Tax

Effectively navigate the complexities of VAT, GST, and sales tax in your target foreign markets with the support of expert legal guidance. Ensure compliance, streamline tax processes, and protect your business from costly errors as you expand internationally.

Challenges Faced by SMEs in VAT/GST and Sales Tax

  • Complexity and Variation: Navigating the varying VAT/GST and sales tax regulations across different countries.
  • Compliance and Filing: Managing frequent and detailed filing requirements to ensure timely and accurate tax reporting.
  • Cross-border Transactions: Handling the complexities of VAT/GST in cross-border sales and digital services.

Steps for SMEs to Address VAT/GST and Sales Tax

  • Research Regulations: Thoroughly research VAT/GST and sales tax laws in target markets.
  • Consult Experts: Engage local tax professionals to ensure compliance and optimize tax strategy.
  • Implement Systems: Use robust accounting systems to manage tax filings and payments effectively.

Common Scenarios

Export and International Sales

Sale and export of goods and products to foreign markets, including direct sales and sales through distributors.

Import and Procurement

Purchase, import, and procurement of goods, products, and/or parts from foreign exporters and suppliers.

eCommerce

Online sales or purchases across borders on eCommerce platforms or your own online shops.

Foreign Direct Investment

Investment in, setting up, managing, and closing business entities in foreign markets, including subsidiaries, partnerships, or joint ventures.

Explore Legal Solutions by Country

Philippines Image

Philippines

  • Regulatory Framework: VAT applies to goods and services, with standard and zero-rated categories.
  • Filing Requirements: Monthly and quarterly VAT returns are required.
  • Cross-border Transactions: Exports are zero-rated, and imports incur VAT.
Hong Kong Image

Hong Kong

Brazil Image

Brazil

  • Regulatory Framework: VAT is levied at federal and state levels, with different rates for goods and services.
  • Filing Requirements: Monthly VAT returns and periodic reconciliations are necessary.
  • Cross-border Transactions: Exports are typically exempt, while imports are subject to VAT.
India Image

India

  • Regulatory Framework: Goods and Services Tax (GST) replaced multiple indirect taxes, with rates varying by product category.
  • Filing Requirements: Monthly and annual returns are mandatory for GST-registered businesses.
  • Cross-border Transactions: Integrated GST (IGST) applies to inter-state and international transactions.
Vietnam Image

Vietnam

  • Regulatory Framework: VAT is applied at various rates, including a standard rate and reduced rates for specific goods and services.
  • Filing Requirements: Monthly or quarterly VAT returns are mandatory.
  • Cross-border Transactions: Exports are zero-rated, and imports are subject to VAT.
China Image

China

  • Regulatory Framework: VAT applies to most goods and services, with standard rates and reduced rates for certain products.
  • Filing Requirements: Monthly or quarterly VAT returns are required.
  • Cross-border Transactions: Exported goods are typically zero-rated, while imports are subject to VAT.
Indonesia Image

Indonesia

  • Regulatory Framework: VAT applies to goods and services, with standard and reduced rates.
  • Filing Requirements: Monthly VAT returns and annual reconciliations are required.
  • Cross-border Transactions: Exports are zero-rated, while imports incur VAT.
Malaysia Image

Malaysia

  • Regulatory Framework: Sales and Service Tax (SST) applies to specific goods and services, replacing GST.
  • Filing Requirements: Bi-monthly returns for sales tax and quarterly returns for service tax.
  • Cross-border Transactions: SST does not apply to exported goods but applies to imported goods.
Thailand Image

Thailand

  • Regulatory Framework: VAT applies to goods and services, with a standard rate and exemptions for certain goods.
  • Filing Requirements: Monthly VAT returns are mandatory.
  • Cross-border Transactions: Exports are zero-rated, and imports are subject to VAT.

Simplify VAT/GST and Sales Tax Compliance with Expert Guidance

Facing VAT, GST, or sales tax challenges? Connect with vetted tax professionals and resolve issues in 4 steps—wherever you are.

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China

Sylvia Zhang

Sylvia Zhang
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Maarten Roos
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Susan Wang
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Jay Chen
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Raoul Schweicher
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India

Abhishek Esq.

Abhishek Esq.
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Connie Dai

Connie Dai
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China

Grace Li

Grace Li
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Graziella Oliveira

Graziella Oliveira
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Marlow Sun
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Milena Oliveira
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Pierre Wong
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Adv. Soaham Panse

Adv. Soaham Panse
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