Asia Pacific

VAT China: New law for a clearer tax system

On 1 January 2026, China will implement its new value-added tax (VAT) law, replacing the interim VAT regulations. The new regulations include the definition of taxable and non-taxable sales, expanded input tax deduction, and the refund of VAT credits. The Ecovis tax advisors explain the details.

Personal income tax Vietnam: Automatic refund from 2025

The General Department of Taxation’s decree of 24 January 2025 on the automatic personal income tax (PIT) refund procedure makes it easier for taxpayers to fulfil their tax obligations. The new procedure came into effect upon signature. The Ecovis experts explain how the process works.

China’s 2025 investment framework: What global businesses need to know

On 19 February 2025, China unveiled a comprehensive action plan to stabilise and promote foreign investment. The plan includes various strategic measures which the government aims to use to attract and retain foreign capital.

New Regulations on Tax Management For Enterprises with Related-Party Transactions in Vietnam

On 10 February 2025, the Vietnamese government introduced changes to the tax rules for companies with related-party transactions, aimed at simplifying key areas. The changes include clearer rules on bank loans, updated definitions of related parties and adjustments to non-deductible interest expenses. The experts from ECOVIS AFA Vietnam explain these updates in detail.

Audit Exemption Malaysia: New Qualifying Criteria

The Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) has introduced an audit exemption to reduce costs for small companies, with new rules on turnover, assets, and employees phased in over three years. Certain companies, such as public company subsidiaries, remain ineligible. While the exemption offers benefits, companies should assess its impact on governance and transparency, as explained by the Ecovis experts from ECOVIS Malaysia.

Helping Chinese Companies Go Global: Insights from Pingwen Hu

Mrs Pingwen Hu is the Managing Partner and a founding member of ECOVIS Ruide China. With over 30 years of experience and exceptional professional expertise, she is widely recognised in the fields of international accounting, auditing and consulting. As a member of both the ECOVIS International Quality and Development Board and the ECOVIS International Supervisory Board, Pingwen plays a key role in the firm’s global business operations, particularly its presence across the Asia Pacific region.

NRI Tax in India and New Income Tax Bill 2025

India’s central government has introduced the Income Tax Bill 2025 to replace the six-decade-old Income Tax Act of 1961, marking a major step toward a simpler and more efficient tax system. The Bill aims to simplify tax laws by removing outdated provisions, introducing a unified tax year, and enhancing transparency.

Carbon Credit Cambodia: How to Achieve Net Zero

Reducing carbon emissions is a growing priority worldwide. Carbon credits help by allowing companies to offset their emissions through projects that remove greenhouse gases. The experts from ECOVIS VSDK & Partners explore how Cambodia can benefit from carbon credits, especially through biochar production.

Legal Aspects of High-Yield Real Estate Investment in India: REITs and GIFT City

India’s real estate sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the convergence of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). This combination is reshaping investment opportunities, offering both domestic and international investors access to India’s growing real estate market, projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030. However, while these opportunities are promising, understanding the legal framework governing these investments is crucial for ensuring compliance and minimizing risks.

A Comprehensive Guide for Foreigners to Buying Property in Taiwan

As part of a leading global consultancy, Ecovis provides tailored legal support for real estate matters in Taiwan and internationally. Whether you need a real estate attorney or real estate property lawyer, our expertise spans every stage—from property acquisitions to real estate litigation—ensuring top-tier guidance and peace of mind.

Representative office in Vietnam: Essential updates

Foreign companies with representative offices in Vietnam must ensure that their representative office (RO) license is always up to date. Otherwise, they face high fines and business activities will be hindered. The Ecovis experts explain the updating process and which documents are required.

Vietnam’s banking sector: Substantial innovations in Vietnam’s credit operations

Vietnam’s banking sector is changing. The Vietnamese government has therefore passed a law for credit institutions. It aims to strengthen the regulatory framework for credit institutions and improve consumer protection. The law came into force on 1 July 2024. Ecovis consultants explain the background and details.

How to manage tax risk in China

Companies, as well as private individuals, must manage their taxes in order to be able to identify and contain potential risks. The penalties for mistakes are harsh and fearsome. The Ecovis experts explain how tax risks can be managed in China.

Corporate law in China: Liability risks under the new law

As of 1 July 2024, China’s revised corporate law imposes stricter liability rules for directors and board members, significantly heightening personal accountability for violations of duties and laws. This change amplifies transparency and due diligence obligations while subjecting directors to stricter oversight.

Resident Director Services Australia: Expert Guidance for International Businesses

David Conley brings over 25 years of experience in tax and business consulting to his role as a director of Sydney accounting and business advisory firm, ECOVIS Clark Jacobs. His career journey, which includes stints at global firms such as Ernst & Young, Deloitte and PwC, has equipped him with a unique perspective on the importance of tailored, client-focused solutions.

E-Commerce Platforms in Vietnam: Proposed New Tax Responsibilities for Platform Owners

In recent years, the rapid growth of e-commerce in Vietnam has prompted significant changes in the regulatory landscape. The Vietnamese government is now proposing new tax responsibilities for e-commerce platform owners to ensure better compliance and transparency. The Ecovis experts from ECOVIS AFA VIETNAM explore the current tax administration requirements and the proposed amendments to the Tax Administration Act aimed at streamlining tax declaration and payment processes for businesses operating on e-commerce platforms.

Malaysia Special Economic Zones: Exclusive Tax Incentives to Establish Your Family Office in Malaysia’s Forest City Special Financial Zone

On 20 September 2024, YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Finance Minister II, delivered a keynote address at the Forest City Special Financial Zone (FCSFZ) Tax Incentive Announcement Ceremony. The address highlighted the Government’s commitment to fostering investment and positioning Forest City as a competitive financial hub through attractive tax incentives. This initiative is aimed at attracting global Single Family Offices (SFOs) to establish their presence in the region, promoting economic growth and generating high-value employment opportunities.

Chinese Companies Going Global: Tax & Accounting Risks

In the wave of globalization, “going global” has become an important strategy for many Chinese enterprises. In some cases, companies often formulate meticulous investment strategies, but many have less knowledge about the tax and accounting of the target country(ies). Neglecting accounting and tax risks will inevitably result in unnecessary fines and penalties, leading to limited development.

Transfer pricing in Vietnam: Proposed changes of the draft amendments to Decree 132

Decree No. 132/2020/ND-CP (Decree 132) on tax administration for companies with related party transactions, which has been in force since 2020, has led to some restrictions and difficulties for companies. The Vietnamese government therefore presented amendments to Decree 132 in July 2024, which are to be adopted in the 4th quarter and will apply from the 2024 tax period. The Ecovis consultants explain the background and what is changing.

Ecovis is back in Japan

We warmly welcome our new colleagues from Japan to the Ecovis family! ECOVIS AKIA Tax Consultants was established in July 2008 by two partners to support foreign affiliated companies to enter the Japanese market.

Vietnam’s social insurance law: New law to come into effect on 1 July 2025

Vietnam’s 15th National Assembly recently passed Law No. 41/2024/QH15 on social insurance. The new law introduces amendments that address current inadequacies between legislation and real-life practice, while improving the rights and benefits for social insurance participants. It will come into effect on1 July 2025. The Ecovis experts know the changes.

ATO Data Matching: What Taxpayers Should Know

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is drawing media attention this tax season with its scrutiny of various areas, including the usual remote work expenses, as well as cryptocurrencies and rental properties. However, beyond the media spotlight the ATO has also quietly developed new data connections that could indicate future audit targets. Scott Hogan-Smith from ECOVIS Clark Jacobs explores these data links and the information being gathered about taxpayers.

India Announces Simplified Tax Regime & Reforms

India’s recent budget proposals have introduced reforms to make its tax regime easier to understand and more business-friendly. In this article, the experts at ECOVIS RKCA explore how these new rules will impact a wide range of stakeholders, including start-ups, multinationals and individual investors.

Top Talent Pass Scheme Hong Kong: Highlights of the TTPS • 高端人才通行證計劃

The Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) is one of the new measures announced by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government to attract talent to Hong Kong. This scheme is expected to be popular as it does not require employer sponsorship at the time of application. The scheme is widely available to eligible nationals from many countries and offers a new path to Hong Kong to live and work. The experts from ECOVIS Axial CPA Limited outline the features and benefits.

Vietnam: Tax, Land Rental Payment Deadlines and 2% VAT Reduction Extended till End of 2024

The Vietnamese government is easing financial pressures by extending tax and land rental deadlines and prolonging the 2% VAT reduction on certain goods and services through the end of 2024. The experts at ECOVIS AFA VIETNAM provide a detailed overview of these recent measures, which impact various tax and land rent obligations.

CFC Taiwan: Implications of New Regulations for Offshore Trusts and Broader APAC Insights

Taiwan’s new CFC regulations, effective January 1, 2023, tighten tax rules for offshore trusts held by Taiwanese residents. A recent July 2024 ruling requires offshore trustees to register with Taiwan’s tax authorities and adhere to new reporting standards. The experts from TAK ASSOCIES and ECOVIS Taiwan CPA Firm explore these developments and their broader impact across the Asia-Pacific region.

Celebrating 20 Years at ECOVIS Ruide Shanghai

We are excited to share the news that ECOVIS Ruide Shanghai, founded in 2004, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year! We marked this significant milestone with a special celebration in June. Over the past 20 years, our journey has been shaped by the support of our clients and the entire ECOVIS International network, through both triumphs and challenges.

Malaysia E-Invoicing: Embracing the Digital Future

Malaysia is launching e-invoicing to modernize its tax system and streamline business transactions. Starting August 2024, the Inland Revenue Board will phase in this digital system, replacing traditional invoicing methods. The experts at ECOVIS MALAYSIA TAX SDN BHD explain what businesses need to know about this transition, including implementation timelines, benefits, and compliance requirements.

WKO Advantage Austria: Ecovis China are trusted experts for Chinese legal, tax and financial insights – a case study

WKO Advantage Austria has built a long-term and successful business relationship with ECOVIS Richard Hoffmann Law Firm & ECOVIS Ruide Shanghai, led by partners Richard Hoffmann and Pingwen Hu.

ECOVIS OC Law Facilitates Successful Market Entry for Leading Native Advertising Pioneer in Vietnam

Our client, a subsidiary of a leading multinational company based in Singapore, is a global pioneer in native advertising. As they expand their innovative revenue growth solutions across the advertising ecosystem, they rely on ECOVIS OC Law for expert legal support in Vietnam.

Smooth Sailing into Vietnam: Ecovis Facilitates Seamless Expansion for German Logistics Leader

Our client in Germany, a major player in the logistics sector, was looking to expand its operations into Vietnam. To ensure a seamless and compliant establishment in this new market, they turned to Ecovis for expert assistance.

Non-cash payments Vietnam: New regulations

The Vietnamese government recently issued Decree No. 52/2024/ND-CP (Decree 52) regulating non-cash payments. This regulates the opening and use of payment accounts and sets out clearly the cases for blocking or closing such accounts. Decree 52 takes effect from 1 July 2024. The Ecovis experts explain the effects.

Establish Representative Office in Vietnam: Updates to Regulations Regarding Foreign Trade Promotion Organizations in Vietnam: Decree 14/2024/ND-CP

The Vietnamese Government has issued Decree No. 14/2024/ND-CP (Decree 14). This improves measures to promote foreign trade, including changes in the approval procedures for representative offices of foreign trade promotion organisations. The decree came into force on 25 March 2024.

Vietnam Manufacturing Companies: How to set up a Company in Vietnam

Vietnam’s burgeoning manufacturing sector plays a pivotal role in its export-driven economy, attracting international companies with favourable conditions for foreign ownership. The experts at Ecovis Vietnam advise what you need to know before establishing a manufacturing company in Vietnam.

Service Tax Malaysia: Two Major Changes in 2024

Malaysia’s fiscal landscape is undergoing significant changes with the announcement of the 2024 Budget, including a notable increase in the service tax rate. This shift, alongside the reintroduction of the Sales and Service Tax since 2018, reflects the nation’s proactive stance toward economic challenges. The experts at ECOVIS Malaysia outline the changes.

Incorporation of Software Company in Vietnam: Legal Guidelines and Key Points

What are the considerations when setting up a technology business in Vietnam? The experts at ECOVIS Vietnam outline the steps for those considering an investment in this booming startup arena.

Data Transfer Security to China: German GDPR Tactics for Safe Passage

German companies looking to expand into China or carry out cross-border data transfers must observe numerous data protection regulations and develop strategies for compliance. Failure to do so may result in significant penalties. The experts from ECOVIS Rechtsanwaltskanzlei Richard Hoffmann provide an overview of the regulations and strategies for secure data traffic.

Minimum wage Vietnam: 6% increase from 1 July 2024

The Vietnamese Ministry of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) is drafting a decree regulating the minimum wage for contracted employees. MOLISA is proposing an increase of 6% compared to the current level, applicable from 1 July 2024. The...

How to pay in China: China’s cashless revolution – a guide to new payment options

Foreign employees and visitors in China can now pay with international cards, such as Mastercard or Visa, by scanning QR codes online or directly on site. The Ecovis experts explain the new cashless payment options.

Company Law in China: Navigating the Key Changes

China recently updated its company legislation, with changes set to take effect from July 2024. Shanghai K-insight Law Firm outline the key amendments, which aim to enhance operational efficiency and safeguard the interests of companies, shareholders and creditors.

Taiwan Carbon Emissions: Catching up with Zero Carbon Emission Target

The ambitious goal of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050, set forth by COP21, has spurred significant global efforts to combat climate change. The team at TAK ASSOCIES explain how Taiwan, a key player in electronics manufacturing, has swiftly adopted measures to curb carbon emissions.

New company law in China: What businesses need to know

Chinese corporate law is changing on a large scale. The changes include new rules for equity investments, legal representatives or corporations. The law will come into force on 1 July 2024. The Ecovis experts explain the most important changes in the law.

Telemedicine in Vietnam: Regulations and their Impact on Healthcare Service Providers

I. Definition Telemedicine is the provision of healthcare services facilitated “remotely”, without the need for in-person interaction. This activity is carried out by healthcare professionals using information and communication technology to gather information for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of...

Forging the Future of Work: How Exxeta Pioneers Global Remote Work Solutions, supported by ECOVIS Heidelberg

Under the guidance of Richard Hoffmann, Lawyer and Senior Partner, Ecovis Heidelberg has fostered a deep and enduring business relationship with Marcus Bingenheimer-Zimmermann, Director of People & Culture at Exxeta, previously the Head of Human Resources at the esteemed football...

Transfer Money Vietnam: Implementation of Biometric Authentication

Effective from 1 July 2024, in accordance with Decision No. 2345 of the State Bank of Vietnam, all direct money transfers or deposits into e-wallets with a value equal to or exceeding 10 million VND will require biometric authentication. This...

Global Minimum Tax Vietnam: Effective from 2024

Vietnam is introducing an additional corporate tax. The global minimum tax rate of 15 percent will apply to multinational companies whose revenues exceed EUR 750 million (approx. USD 800 million) in two out of four consecutive years. The new regulation...

Becoming a B Corp: Should Your Business Make the Move?

An emerging business model, B Corp - or Benefit Corporation - signifies a progressive approach to running a business: aiming to reconcile profit with a genuine commitment to environmental and community welfare. B Corps undergo a certification process administered by...

China cross-border data transfer: Navigating legal complexities

Stricter regulations for cross-border data transfers, such as risk impact assessments, now apply in China. The Ecovis experts explain what companies that transfer data need to consider.

Non-disclosure Agreement Vietnam: New precedent on the legal validity of non-disclosure and non-compete agreements

In a groundbreaking move, the Supreme People’s Court of Vietnam recently issued Decision 364/QD-CA dated 1 October 2023, announcing seven case laws, with case law no. 69/2023/AL (precedent 69) taking centre stage. This decision solidifies authority of arbitration in addressing...

Legal Representative in China: How to Stay Compliant in 2023

Limited liability companies registered in China must appoint a legal representative. They represent the company in exercising its rights and obligations. At the same time, legal representatives are exposed to potential compliance risks if the company’s activities (or their own actions) violate the law, administrative regulations, or the company’s articles of association.

Budget 2024 Malaysia: The Startup of Tax Reform by the Government

In a historic move for the country, the Malaysian Prime Minister, who is also Minister of Finance, unveiled the eagerly awaited 2024 budget on 13 October 2023, which sets a new spending record of MYR 393.8 billion.

Electronic Book Preservation Act Japan

In consideration of the difficulty of actually implementing the Electronic Book Preservation Act, there was a two-year transition period prior to enforcement. The revision will affect all companies in Japan once it comes into force. From 1 January 2024, electronically stored information (ESI) must be preserved under the revised Act. The Ecovis experts explain how it is implemented in practice.

Transfer Pricing Malaysia: New Income Tax Rules in 2023

The Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) has issued the latest Income Tax (Transfer Pricing) Rules 2023, which are effective from the 2023 assessment year and replace the Income Tax (Transfer Pricing Rules) 2012. The experts from ECOVIS MALAYSIA TAX...

Cross-border Data Transfer Made Easy: The CAC Standard Contract

The transfer of personal data has been much simpler since 1st June 2023. This has been made possible by the newly introduced Collective Action Clause (CAC) Standard Contract, together with the corresponding Standard Contractual Clauses (referred to as "China SCCs")....

Cross-Border Game Providers in Vietnam: Impact of Recent Actions by the MIC

The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) and its Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information division (ABEI) recently implemented various measures that have significantly impacted cross-border game providers in Vietnam. Most notably, the specific actions taken by the MIC and...

Cybersecurity Vietnam: Latest Draft of Cybersecurity Administrative Sanctions Decree

The Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security (MPS) has released the third draft of a Cybersecurity Administrative Action Decree (CASD). The draft CASD is scheduled to come into force on 1 December 2023. The experts from ECOVIS Vietnam OC Law in...

Selling my Business in China: Navigating Cross-Border Taxation and Unpacking US Tax Implications

United States (US) corporations, in particular, have been actively investing in Chinese entities, leading to intricate tax implications when these companies decide to divest these assets. The US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 profoundly changed these tax...

Tax Identification Number Vietnam: The New Payable Identification Number

From 10 May 2023, taxpayers must use a fee-based identification number for all tax payments. This must be applied for with the tax authority and those who fail to comply must expect sanctions. The experts from ECOVIS AFA VIETNAM explain...

Tax policy in Vietnam: Extension of Payment Deadlines for Tax Payables and Land Leases in 2023

The Vietnamese government has taken tax policy measures to relieve the economy after the Coronavirus pandemic. This includes a package of deadline extensions for tax payments and land leases. The decree came into force on 14 April 2023 and is...

UAE Corporate Tax 2023: Implementation of the Federal Corporate Tax

The Corporate Tax Law will come into force in the United Arab Emirates on 1 June 2023. With this, the government is introducing new principles for the taxation of companies. The regulations comprise a tax rate of 9%. The Ecovis...

Digital Advertising Vietnam: Regulations on Cross-border and Digital Advertising Services

Decree No. 70/2021/ND-CP (the decree), which came into effect in Vietnam on 15 September 2021, regulates the provision of cross-border and digital advertising services. The aim is to prevent illegal content and misleading or unethical advertising practices by offshore advertising...

Treading a Fine Line: 2024 Budget Australia

On Tuesday May 9th, the Australian Government handed down the 2023/2024 budget. What does the recently announced federal budget mean for Australians? ECOVIS Clark Jacobs in Australia examines the key measures.

Personal Data Protection Vietnam: New Decree to Come into Full Force in July

Decree No. 13/2023/ND-CP on personal data protection (PDPD) was issued on 17 April 2023. It comes into full force on 1 July 2023. From then on, all companies will have to comply with the regulations. However, the government has given...

Setting up a Business in India for Foreign Companies

Given India’s rapidly growing market, the country’s investment potential has enticed a slew of foreign companies to establish their presence in India. Over the last few years, initiatives have been taken to ensure that establishing a business in India is more straightforward and foreign companies are encouraged to invest in the country.

Personal Income Tax Vietnam: Updates on Documents Proving Qualified Tax Dependents

On 1 January 2023 an updated policy came into force in Vietnam, outlining the documentation required for taxpayers to prove the legitimacy of their declared dependents. Circular No. 79/2022/TT-BTC amends Point g Clause 1 Article 9 of Circular No. 111/2013/TT-BTC,...

VAT Vietnam: The reduction according to Decree No. 15/2022/ND-CP has ended

Decree No. 15/2022/ND-CP (Decree 15), which last year reduced the VAT rate from 10% down to 8% for certain goods and services in Vietnam, expired on 31 December 2022. This means that, from 1 January 2023, the VAT has returned...

Corruption? Not in my business!

In recent years there have been an increased number of cases regarding business people and celebrities finding themselves in trouble due to financial crimes or corruption. You can frequently find examples in the news, and tycoons or individuals from the...

Employment Act Malaysia: Amendment in 2022

The Employment Act (Amendment) 2022 came into effect on 1 January 2023. This Amendment Act seeks to introduce a number of important changes to the previous act - Employment Act 1955 (EA 1955) - and is aimed at benefiting both...

Tax exemption for non-resident dependents

The Japanese government has changed the tax laws exempting non-resident dependents from tax. The law came into force on 1 January 2023. The Ecovis experts explain the details. Background Taxpayers in Japan are allowed to make a deduction for non-resident...

Starting a Business in Australia

Case Study Background Danish Co is a Significant Global Entity (SGE) with extensive experience in the mature European energy trading market and was seeking to expand into the younger Australian market and the opportunities this presented. Ecovis Sydney was contacted...

E-Invoices in Vietnam: E-Invoices Generated from Cash Registers

Enterprises, business households, or business individuals who provide goods or services directly to consumers are allowed to use e-invoices issued from Point of Sale (POS) cash registers (Clause 2, Article 8 of Circular 78/2021/TT-BTC). This covers business models such as...

Vietnam cybersecurity law: Data localisation requirement for digital service providers

The Vietnamese government has clarified certain articles of the Cybersecurity Law 2018. This includes, for example, which data is subject to the localisation obligation, or in which cases a branch office is to be established. Decree no. 53/2022/ND-CP (the “Decree”)...

M&A Asia: A practical view on issues for multi-country acquisitions

Companies can generate growth by acquiring other companies. The Ecovis experts explain which legal and tax aspects must be considered in M&A and how to use data rooms correctly. (more…)

Personal data protection act Thailand: Exemption for SMEs

The Thai Personal Data Protection Act B.E. 2562 (PDPA) came into effect on 1 June 2022. Small businesses are exempt from implementing the data protection act. This is regulated in one of four organic acts, or “notifications”, issued by the...

Tax on Vietnam Cross Border E-Commerce Activities

In recent years, due to the progess in technology, Vietnam has become a leading market for foreign investors in the field of e-commerce. The country is now passing and amending regulations regarding tax obligations for e-commerce activities, particularly concerning cross-border...

Foreign Documents: Consular Legalization Vietnam

In recent years, Vietnam has developed and optimized policies to support and therefore attract more foreign investors. One important procedure that foreign investors need to perform when planning to invest in Vietnam is the consular legalization of foreign documents. 1....

Vietnam Minimum Wage: Updated Salary Policy

Statutory Minimum Wage per Month There has been an increase of the statutory minimum wage per month in Vietnam [1]. On 12 June 2022, the Government issued a new order (Decree 38/2022/ND-CP) prescribing statutory minimum wages paid to employees working...

Tax Incentives in Vietnam for Software Services and Software Products

The world is witnessing the booming transformation into the digitalization era, in which software production has become increasingly more important. In Vietnam, this industry has experienced considerable growth, almost doubling in the number of software businesses over the last five...

Business Valuations

A business valuation is the process of determining the economic value of an enterprise, giving business or potential owners an objective estimate of the value of a business. Business valuations are not an exact science and valuation experts must exercise...

New Requirements for Japanese Consumption Tax Invoicing: The Tax-Qualified Invoice System

A Japanese Consumption Tax (JCT), equivalent to VAT, was introduced in April 1989. Since then, the standard tax rate has gradually increased to 10%. In addition, an 8% reduced tax rate was implemented from 2019 for certain goods and services....

Tesla’s Next Super Factory: What Does This Mean for China?

Where will Tesla's second super factory be located? This question has, once again, attracted attention worldwide. In January, Elon Musk declared that this year he would announce the location of Tesla's fifth super factory. Tesla currently has two local super...

Invest in Cambodia: The Importance of Financial Due Diligence

Tourism, together with clothing manufacturing, construction and agriculture, is one of the four key sectors supporting Cambodia’s economic expansion. (more…)

Removal of Foreign Income Tax Exemptions in Malaysia

As Malaysians anticipated special aid and recovery measures from the government in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, they were caught by surprise when the Minister of Finance announced the removal of foreign source income exemption for residents when he...

COVID-19 and the Big Quit: Keys to Employee Retention

In early 2020 the world as we knew it changed and it is doubtful that many of us foresaw the extent of those changes and how long they would last. When the pandemic first hit the world, there were predictions...

E-Tax Vietnam: Launch of E-Portal And Tax Mobile App

Vietnam’s two new digitized tax administration platforms will help both foreign and local taxpayers meet their tax obligations. On March 21, 2022 the Vietnam General Department of Taxation held an online conference to announce the launch of the e-Portal for...

Accounting Firms in Australia: ECOVIS Clark Jacobs makes the Top 100 Firms

ECOVIS Clark Jacobs has again been named in the Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Accounting Firms, ranking #58 for 2021. Published each year in November, the AFR’s list ranks accounting firms by total revenue for the financial year, but also...

Equal Pay for Equal Work in Japan

Equal pay for equal work regulations came into effect in Japan in April 2020, and in April 2021 for small and medium-sized companies. The aim is to remove unreasonable disparities in working conditions between non-regular (part-time or fixed-term employees) and...

Investing in Renewable Energy in Vietnam

Although not without challenges, Vietnam’s natural resources paired with its sustainability goals means the country is heading towards global leadership in renewable energy, and provides possible opportunities for investors. According to a report by Electricity of Vietnam (EVN), in the...

Vietnam Tax Exemptions: COVID-19 Support For Business and Individuals

On 19th October 2021 the National Assembly Standing Committee issued a resolution (Resolution No. 406/NQ-UBTVQH15) introducing tax exemptions and reductions to support enterprises and individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These exemptions and reductions are listed below: 30% Reduction of Payable...

E-Commerce Vietnam: Stricter Regulations Proposed on the Sector

The E-Commerce sector is developing at an accelerated rate due to the effects of the industrial revolution 4.0. Because of this, amending the legal framework of this sector under the current Decree 52/2013/ND-CP dated 16 May 2013 of the Government...

Requirements for Foreign Language Teachers in Vietnam

As a global language, English is an important inclusion in the curriculum of educational institutions throughout Vietnam. There are numerous opportunities to teach English in Vietnam and while being a native English speaker is advantageous, it’s not sufficient. Legal requirements...

Foreign Investment in Vietnam

In the developed world, with strategic location, supportive policies and regulations, and a young and well-qualified labour force, Vietnam has become a more attractive market for foreign investors. To make foreign investment in Vietnam more accessible, the National Assembly of...

Professional Ethics of Auditors: The Case of Serba Dinamik

In accordance with article 16 of the Law on Corporate Accounts, Their Audits, and Accounting Profession, all enterprises, natural persons and legal entities with Khmer or foreign nationality domiciled in the Kingdom of Cambodia, that meet two of the following three criteria, have an obligation to submit their annual statements for audit by independent auditors registered in the statutory auditor list of the

Cambodia: A Significant Increase in Audits - ECOVIS International

After spending a number of years studying Goods and Services Tax (GST), Malaysia was the last country in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) excluding Brunei to implement GST in 2015. However, Malaysia became the first to abolish GST...

Payroll in Singapore: Common Non-compliance HR Matters

Are you aware of the following? Under the Skills Development Levy (SDL) Act, employers are required to pay SDL, at different contribution rates, for every employee they hire. This applies to all permanent, casual, part-time, temporary or foreign employees rendering...

Doing Business in Australia: Establishing a Local Company isn’t the Only Solution… - ECOVIS International

At the turn of the new year, the Circular on Further Optimizing the Cross-border RMB Policy to Support the Stabilization of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment (YinFa [2020] No. 330) (hereinafter referred to as ‘Circular No. 330’) was published, which...