Other Briefings
U.S. and New Zealand to Challenge Indonesian Agricultural Restrictions at WTO
The United States has announced it will request a new World Trade Organization dispute settlement consultation with Indonesia over licensing requirements for the import of agricultural products.
Indonesia to Relax Tax Burden on Mineral Exports
The Indonesian government is finalizing a set of new regulations that will reduce the export tax on mineral concentrates for mining companies operating in the country. In order to avail the reduced export taxes, eligible mining companies must agree to build a smelter in Indonesia.
Singapore’s Trade Minister Talks Up Free Trade Agreements
Singapore’s Trade Minister praised the city-state’s participation in regional and global trade deals that will help position the country as a nexus for international business.
Praise for the U.S. – Philippines Partnership for Growth
During his visit to the Philippines last week, U.S. President Obama reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to economic cooperation with the Philippines and highlighted the ongoing role of the U.S.-Philippines Partnership for Growth for continued economic and policy support.
Philippines to Offer Tax Breaks to Global Film Production Industry
A bill has been introduced in the Philippine Senate that would grant tax incentives to foreign and local film production companies in an effort to promote the country’s film industry and create a market for “film tourism.”
Thailand Offers Tax Deductions on R&D
Thailand has launched an online expense certification service to help businesses demonstrate they meet the qualifications necessary for a 200 percent research and development (R&D) tax deduction.
Vietnam Online – Understanding Vietnam’s E-commerce Market
Vietnam, like much of Asia, has a growing middle class which, in-turn, is spawning a strong consumer culture. Within the country, e-commerce is fast becoming the preferred method of shopping, particularly among the young.
Tax Hike Makes Luxury Cars in Indonesia Even More of a Luxury
Regulations issued by the Indonesian Ministry of Finance hike the luxury-goods sales tax (LCT) on luxury cars by two-thirds to 125 percent.
Singapore–Barbados DTA Comes Into Effect
The newest of Singapore’s now 75 double taxation agreements (DTA), signed between the city-state and the island nation of Barbados, went into effect on Friday last week. The agreement is expected to boost cross-border trade and investment between Singapore and Barbados by clarifying both parties’ taxation rights so as to avoid double taxation.
May 2014 ASEAN Regional Meetings
There are a number of important ASEAN regional meetings taking place in May, including the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement Joint Committee Meeting and the ASEAN Labour Ministers Meeting.
