Benchmarking tax practitioner regulation in Zimbabwe and South Africa against German best practice
- Authors: Munkuli, Charles
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Tax consultants South Africa , Taxpayer compliance South Africa , Revenue authority , Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , Taxation Law and legislation Zimbabwe , Taxation Law and legislation Germany
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419621 , vital:71660
- Description: The regulation of professionals who offer any type of service to the public is a critical intervention towards protecting the public from unscrupulous behaviour. The regulation of tax practitioners is no exception as it is a critical element in protecting the taxpaying public and the fiscus against improper conduct by tax practitioners, as well as preventing revenue leakages due to inaccurate or incorrect declarations made by taxpayers. A major contributor of regulation would be strengthening or improving compliance. This study analyses the frameworks that regulate tax practitioners in Zimbabwe and South Africa and evaluates them against best practice as is found in Germany. Germany has been regulating tax practitioners for 50 years and can rightly be recognised as best practice. This is achieved by reviewing and evaluating institutional and legislative mechanisms in the regulatory frameworks adopted in the three countries in order to identify possible areas of improvement in Zimbabwe and South Africa. The research is situated in the interpretative paradigm and the research methodology is qualitative in nature, involving the critical review of documentary data. The study concludes that both South Africa and Zimbabwe have room to improve in certain areas and makes recommendations aimed at strengthening their respective regulatory frameworks. Both South Africa and Zimbabwe could promulgate a law that deals exclusively with the regulation of tax practitioners, and institute an independent body that deals exclusively with tax practitioner related issues. In Zimbabwe, the Public Accountants and Auditors’ Board should be replaced with a body dedicated to serving tax practitioners. Informing the taxpaying public is important and, particularly in Zimbabwe, measures should be adopted to inform taxpayers about their rights and obligations, the role of tax practitioners, and the interface with the tax administration. The Zimbabwean regulatory model should also recognise other non-accounting and auditing-oriented professions, such as the law profession, as tax practitioners. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Munkuli, Charles
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Tax consultants South Africa , Taxpayer compliance South Africa , Revenue authority , Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , Taxation Law and legislation Zimbabwe , Taxation Law and legislation Germany
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419621 , vital:71660
- Description: The regulation of professionals who offer any type of service to the public is a critical intervention towards protecting the public from unscrupulous behaviour. The regulation of tax practitioners is no exception as it is a critical element in protecting the taxpaying public and the fiscus against improper conduct by tax practitioners, as well as preventing revenue leakages due to inaccurate or incorrect declarations made by taxpayers. A major contributor of regulation would be strengthening or improving compliance. This study analyses the frameworks that regulate tax practitioners in Zimbabwe and South Africa and evaluates them against best practice as is found in Germany. Germany has been regulating tax practitioners for 50 years and can rightly be recognised as best practice. This is achieved by reviewing and evaluating institutional and legislative mechanisms in the regulatory frameworks adopted in the three countries in order to identify possible areas of improvement in Zimbabwe and South Africa. The research is situated in the interpretative paradigm and the research methodology is qualitative in nature, involving the critical review of documentary data. The study concludes that both South Africa and Zimbabwe have room to improve in certain areas and makes recommendations aimed at strengthening their respective regulatory frameworks. Both South Africa and Zimbabwe could promulgate a law that deals exclusively with the regulation of tax practitioners, and institute an independent body that deals exclusively with tax practitioner related issues. In Zimbabwe, the Public Accountants and Auditors’ Board should be replaced with a body dedicated to serving tax practitioners. Informing the taxpaying public is important and, particularly in Zimbabwe, measures should be adopted to inform taxpayers about their rights and obligations, the role of tax practitioners, and the interface with the tax administration. The Zimbabwean regulatory model should also recognise other non-accounting and auditing-oriented professions, such as the law profession, as tax practitioners. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
The adoption of international financial reporting standards and foreign direct investment inflows: the moderating effect of the institutional environment in Africa
- Authors: Simbi, Chipo
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: International Financial Reporting Standards , Investments, Foreign , Institutional infrastructure , Accounting Law and legislation , Auditing Law and legislation , Generalized method of moments , Difference in differences
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419230 , vital:71627 , DOI 10.21504/10962/419230
- Description: Globalisation has created a need for an international accounting language to facilitate the smooth flow of trade across countries. In 2003, in an effort to establish a global financial reporting language, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) developed a single set of high-quality accounting principles known as the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Over the last decade, several African countries have adopted IFRS, and Africa has become the second-largest adopting continent after Europe. IFRS promotes improved quality of disclosure of accounting transactions, reduces information asymmetry between preparers and users of financial information, lowers the cost of investing, and breaks down information barriers to cross-border investment. Researchers suggest many benefits of IFRS adoption for macroeconomic indicators such as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The reduction in information acquisition and processing costs which translates into the reduction in investment costs, has been cited by most researchers. Researchers have argued, however, that the economic benefits of IFRS in Africa depend on the strength of the institutional environment. They also argue that the Western environment in which the IFRS was developed differs from the African environment. Thus, the universal approach of the IASB may not be appropriate due to the historical, social, economic and political context of African countries. The impact of the adoption of IFRS by African countries requires further examination, particularly as a weak institutional environment confronts many African countries. Three research questions are designed for this study; (1) Is there a significant change in FDI inflows for IFRS adopters in selected African countries after the adoption? (2) Is there a significant change in FDI inflows due to the institutional environment? (3) Does the institutional environment in IFRS-adopting countries moderate the effect of IFRS on FDI in selected African countries? The present study is underpinned by the new institutional theory, the information asymmetry theory, the eclectic theory and the signalling theory, each of which provide reasons why African countries have adopted IFRS. Nine hypotheses are developed, based on the research questions, and tested using the Systems General Method of Moments and the Difference-in-Difference method. The study uses data from 26 African countries, 15 adopting and 11 non-adopting countries, over the period 1996 - 2018. First, the study establishes that the adoption of IFRS positively and significantly affects FDI inflows into the selected sample of African countries. Second, the study concludes that legal enforcement, accounting and auditing standards enforcement, and language origin positively and significantly impact FDI inflows into these countries. Legal origin, however, has a positive but insignificant association with FDI inflows. Third, legal enforcement, historical ties, accounting and auditing enforcement and the quality of the institutional environment are found to moderate the effect of IFRS adoption on FDI inflows. These results indicate that IFRS is a crucial determinant of FDI inflows into African countries, but a supportive institutional environment is needed for African countries to attract FDI inflows after adoption. The results contribute to the accounting and finance literature on FDI into African countries, and may assist the investment community to assess the institutional risk associated with investing in IFRS adopting African countries. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Simbi, Chipo
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: International Financial Reporting Standards , Investments, Foreign , Institutional infrastructure , Accounting Law and legislation , Auditing Law and legislation , Generalized method of moments , Difference in differences
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419230 , vital:71627 , DOI 10.21504/10962/419230
- Description: Globalisation has created a need for an international accounting language to facilitate the smooth flow of trade across countries. In 2003, in an effort to establish a global financial reporting language, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) developed a single set of high-quality accounting principles known as the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Over the last decade, several African countries have adopted IFRS, and Africa has become the second-largest adopting continent after Europe. IFRS promotes improved quality of disclosure of accounting transactions, reduces information asymmetry between preparers and users of financial information, lowers the cost of investing, and breaks down information barriers to cross-border investment. Researchers suggest many benefits of IFRS adoption for macroeconomic indicators such as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The reduction in information acquisition and processing costs which translates into the reduction in investment costs, has been cited by most researchers. Researchers have argued, however, that the economic benefits of IFRS in Africa depend on the strength of the institutional environment. They also argue that the Western environment in which the IFRS was developed differs from the African environment. Thus, the universal approach of the IASB may not be appropriate due to the historical, social, economic and political context of African countries. The impact of the adoption of IFRS by African countries requires further examination, particularly as a weak institutional environment confronts many African countries. Three research questions are designed for this study; (1) Is there a significant change in FDI inflows for IFRS adopters in selected African countries after the adoption? (2) Is there a significant change in FDI inflows due to the institutional environment? (3) Does the institutional environment in IFRS-adopting countries moderate the effect of IFRS on FDI in selected African countries? The present study is underpinned by the new institutional theory, the information asymmetry theory, the eclectic theory and the signalling theory, each of which provide reasons why African countries have adopted IFRS. Nine hypotheses are developed, based on the research questions, and tested using the Systems General Method of Moments and the Difference-in-Difference method. The study uses data from 26 African countries, 15 adopting and 11 non-adopting countries, over the period 1996 - 2018. First, the study establishes that the adoption of IFRS positively and significantly affects FDI inflows into the selected sample of African countries. Second, the study concludes that legal enforcement, accounting and auditing standards enforcement, and language origin positively and significantly impact FDI inflows into these countries. Legal origin, however, has a positive but insignificant association with FDI inflows. Third, legal enforcement, historical ties, accounting and auditing enforcement and the quality of the institutional environment are found to moderate the effect of IFRS adoption on FDI inflows. These results indicate that IFRS is a crucial determinant of FDI inflows into African countries, but a supportive institutional environment is needed for African countries to attract FDI inflows after adoption. The results contribute to the accounting and finance literature on FDI into African countries, and may assist the investment community to assess the institutional risk associated with investing in IFRS adopting African countries. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
The complexities of transfer pricing methods and the role of advance pricing agreements and tax audits in addressing disputes
- Authors: Ndou, Wavhudi
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Transfer pricing Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , Advance pricing agreement , Double taxation , Arms-length transactions , Tax auditing , Advance tax ruling , Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development , United Nations , World Bank
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419631 , vital:71661
- Description: Base erosion and profit shifting is defined as the use of tax planning strategies by multinational enterprises, often through exploiting gaps and mismatches between the countries in which they operate (OECD, 2021: p. 1). Multinational enterprises exploit these gaps through the use of transfer pricing. Goods and services are exchanged between connected persons or associated enterprises at prices that do not reflect their arm’s length price, in order to shift profits from high tax to low tax jurisdictions. In terms of section 31 of the Income Tax Act, transactions between connected persons or associated enterprises must be reflected at their arm’s length price. Transfer pricing has become an issue due to the difficulties in determining an appropriate arm’s length price. Disputes arise between a taxpayer and a tax administration on the methods to use to determine an appropriate transfer price. The use of Advance Pricing Agreements prevents these disputes from arising and provides tax certainty on the treatment of transactions for both the taxpayer and the tax administration. While the OECD recommends the use of Advance Pricing Agreements as a method to prevent disputes from arising, the OECD also argued that if a country has the resources to conduct an audit, an Advance Pricing Agreement will not lead to increased revenue collection. The research therefore analyses the problems faced in determining an appropriate arm's length price and compares the role that Advance Pricing Agreements and audits play in addressing transfer pricing issues. The possible role of Advance Tax Rulings is also explored, but they are found not to be suitable, except for the most simple transactions. The research applies a legal interpretative, doctrinal research methodology and a qualitative research method. The data comprised of relevant South African tax legislation, OECD Guidelines, the World Bank Handbook, and the UN Manual, together with the writings of acknowledged experts in the field. The study establishes that a proper functioning audit system is crucial to increasing revenue collection once a country implements an Advance Pricing Agreement. The research therefore recommends the adoption of Advance Pricing Agreements in South Africa as a dispute prevention measure. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Ndou, Wavhudi
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Transfer pricing Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , Advance pricing agreement , Double taxation , Arms-length transactions , Tax auditing , Advance tax ruling , Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development , United Nations , World Bank
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419631 , vital:71661
- Description: Base erosion and profit shifting is defined as the use of tax planning strategies by multinational enterprises, often through exploiting gaps and mismatches between the countries in which they operate (OECD, 2021: p. 1). Multinational enterprises exploit these gaps through the use of transfer pricing. Goods and services are exchanged between connected persons or associated enterprises at prices that do not reflect their arm’s length price, in order to shift profits from high tax to low tax jurisdictions. In terms of section 31 of the Income Tax Act, transactions between connected persons or associated enterprises must be reflected at their arm’s length price. Transfer pricing has become an issue due to the difficulties in determining an appropriate arm’s length price. Disputes arise between a taxpayer and a tax administration on the methods to use to determine an appropriate transfer price. The use of Advance Pricing Agreements prevents these disputes from arising and provides tax certainty on the treatment of transactions for both the taxpayer and the tax administration. While the OECD recommends the use of Advance Pricing Agreements as a method to prevent disputes from arising, the OECD also argued that if a country has the resources to conduct an audit, an Advance Pricing Agreement will not lead to increased revenue collection. The research therefore analyses the problems faced in determining an appropriate arm's length price and compares the role that Advance Pricing Agreements and audits play in addressing transfer pricing issues. The possible role of Advance Tax Rulings is also explored, but they are found not to be suitable, except for the most simple transactions. The research applies a legal interpretative, doctrinal research methodology and a qualitative research method. The data comprised of relevant South African tax legislation, OECD Guidelines, the World Bank Handbook, and the UN Manual, together with the writings of acknowledged experts in the field. The study establishes that a proper functioning audit system is crucial to increasing revenue collection once a country implements an Advance Pricing Agreement. The research therefore recommends the adoption of Advance Pricing Agreements in South Africa as a dispute prevention measure. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
An analysis of the interpretation and application of anti-tax avoidance legislation in the Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962 (as amended)
- Denhere, Munyaradzi Blessing
- Authors: Denhere, Munyaradzi Blessing
- Date: 2023-03-31
- Subjects: South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , Income tax Law and legislation South Africa , Tax evasion South Africa , Tax assessment South Africa , Statutes South Africa Interpretation and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419436 , vital:71644
- Description: Assessed losses provide opportunities to avoid taxation by using various arrangements or transactions. Legislation has been introduced to combat these forms of tax avoidance, in the form of sections 20, 20A, 103(2) and 103(4), and sections 80A to 80L. These sections have also frequently been considered by the courts. The research problem was therefore the analysis of the interaction and effect of the provisions in the Income Tax Act dealing with the use of assessed losses for the purpose of tax avoidance, and the case law interpretation of these provisions. The main goal of the research was to critically analyse the scope and effect of sections 20, 20A, and 103(2) and 102(4), and sections 80A to 80L of the Income Tax Act, dealing with assessed losses, together with the interpretation by the courts. The research was situated within the interpretative paradigm, adopted a qualitative approach, with a doctrinal methodology. As the research was carried out using only publicly available documents, no ethical considerations applied. In addressing the goal of the research, the thesis first discussed the concept of tax avoidance and its consequences. The two main interpretative approaches adopted by the courts, including with regard to tax provisions – the strict literal and the purposive approaches – were described. The thesis then proceeded to analyse sections 20, 20A, 103(2) and 103(4), and sections 80A to 80L, together with the relevant case law, and in the case of sections 80A to 80L, with the use of a hypothetical example, to illustrate the application of the sections. The conclusion arrived at was that the sections discussed in the thesis are adequate to address the problem of the misuse of assessed losses to avoid tax. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-03-31
- Authors: Denhere, Munyaradzi Blessing
- Date: 2023-03-31
- Subjects: South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , Income tax Law and legislation South Africa , Tax evasion South Africa , Tax assessment South Africa , Statutes South Africa Interpretation and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419436 , vital:71644
- Description: Assessed losses provide opportunities to avoid taxation by using various arrangements or transactions. Legislation has been introduced to combat these forms of tax avoidance, in the form of sections 20, 20A, 103(2) and 103(4), and sections 80A to 80L. These sections have also frequently been considered by the courts. The research problem was therefore the analysis of the interaction and effect of the provisions in the Income Tax Act dealing with the use of assessed losses for the purpose of tax avoidance, and the case law interpretation of these provisions. The main goal of the research was to critically analyse the scope and effect of sections 20, 20A, and 103(2) and 102(4), and sections 80A to 80L of the Income Tax Act, dealing with assessed losses, together with the interpretation by the courts. The research was situated within the interpretative paradigm, adopted a qualitative approach, with a doctrinal methodology. As the research was carried out using only publicly available documents, no ethical considerations applied. In addressing the goal of the research, the thesis first discussed the concept of tax avoidance and its consequences. The two main interpretative approaches adopted by the courts, including with regard to tax provisions – the strict literal and the purposive approaches – were described. The thesis then proceeded to analyse sections 20, 20A, 103(2) and 103(4), and sections 80A to 80L, together with the relevant case law, and in the case of sections 80A to 80L, with the use of a hypothetical example, to illustrate the application of the sections. The conclusion arrived at was that the sections discussed in the thesis are adequate to address the problem of the misuse of assessed losses to avoid tax. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-03-31
A critical analysis of the tax treatment of cryptocurrencies in a South African context
- Authors: Ho, Dau-Ming
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Cryptocurrencies Taxation , Income tax Law and legislation South Africa , Income tax Law and legislation Australia , Financial services industry Security measures , South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/357504 , vital:64749
- Description: The aim of the present research was to investigate whether, as claimed by the South African Revenue Service in the media release issued in April 2018, the normal income tax provisions could apply to cryptocurrency transactions. To achieve this aim, a literature review was undertaken to describe the nature of cryptocurrencies and related crypto mining activities, providing definitions of cryptocurrencies, blockchains and crypto mining, as well as describing the functioning of the system. The research then proceeded to analyse the provisions of the definition of “gross income” in section 1 of the Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962, as amended, and the requirements of the “general deduction formula” in terms of the preamble to section 11, section 11(a) and section 23(g), as applying to cryptocurrency transactions. The application of other provisions in the Act to cryptocurrency transactions was analysed, including trading stock in terms of section 22, and capital allowances in terms of sections 11(e), 12C and 13quin of the Act, together with capital gains tax consequences in terms of the Eighth Schedule to the Income Tax Act. The regulation for income tax purposes of cryptocurrency transactions in Australia was discussed, with a view to making similar recommendations in South Africa. The research was situated in the interpretative paradigm, a doctrinal methodology was applied, together with a qualitative analysis of documentary data. The discussion was limited to the income tax consequences of cryptocurrencies as applying to individuals. The findings of the research were that, in general, the normal income tax provisions could apply to cryptocurrency transactions, but based on the analysis of the South African and Australian income tax acts as they apply to cryptocurrencies, it was recommended that a Comprehensive Guide on the income tax consequences of cryptocurrency transactions should be issued by the South African Revenue Service, together with amendments to section 25D and paragraph 43 of the Eighth Schedule to the Income Tax Act to deal with the conversion of cryptocurrencies to Rand values, and to section 9C of the Income Tax Act to include the deemed capital nature of the disposal of cryptocurrencies in the three-year rule presently applying to equity shares. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
- Authors: Ho, Dau-Ming
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Cryptocurrencies Taxation , Income tax Law and legislation South Africa , Income tax Law and legislation Australia , Financial services industry Security measures , South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/357504 , vital:64749
- Description: The aim of the present research was to investigate whether, as claimed by the South African Revenue Service in the media release issued in April 2018, the normal income tax provisions could apply to cryptocurrency transactions. To achieve this aim, a literature review was undertaken to describe the nature of cryptocurrencies and related crypto mining activities, providing definitions of cryptocurrencies, blockchains and crypto mining, as well as describing the functioning of the system. The research then proceeded to analyse the provisions of the definition of “gross income” in section 1 of the Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962, as amended, and the requirements of the “general deduction formula” in terms of the preamble to section 11, section 11(a) and section 23(g), as applying to cryptocurrency transactions. The application of other provisions in the Act to cryptocurrency transactions was analysed, including trading stock in terms of section 22, and capital allowances in terms of sections 11(e), 12C and 13quin of the Act, together with capital gains tax consequences in terms of the Eighth Schedule to the Income Tax Act. The regulation for income tax purposes of cryptocurrency transactions in Australia was discussed, with a view to making similar recommendations in South Africa. The research was situated in the interpretative paradigm, a doctrinal methodology was applied, together with a qualitative analysis of documentary data. The discussion was limited to the income tax consequences of cryptocurrencies as applying to individuals. The findings of the research were that, in general, the normal income tax provisions could apply to cryptocurrency transactions, but based on the analysis of the South African and Australian income tax acts as they apply to cryptocurrencies, it was recommended that a Comprehensive Guide on the income tax consequences of cryptocurrency transactions should be issued by the South African Revenue Service, together with amendments to section 25D and paragraph 43 of the Eighth Schedule to the Income Tax Act to deal with the conversion of cryptocurrencies to Rand values, and to section 9C of the Income Tax Act to include the deemed capital nature of the disposal of cryptocurrencies in the three-year rule presently applying to equity shares. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
Informal sector taxation: a lesson for South Africa
- Authors: Ledwaba, Sophy
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Informal sector (Economics) Taxation South Africa , Turnover tax South Africa , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Tanzania , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Ghana , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Zimbabwe , Small business Taxation Law and legislation South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/357571 , vital:64756
- Description: Most informal sector businesses in developing countries participate indirectly in the tax system through paying Value-Added Tax, as well as import and export duties, without being registered as taxpayers. This effectively results in the collection of lower tax revenue than the informal businesses would be liable for if they were registered as taxpayers. Additionally, the nonregistration of informal sector businesses in the tax system perpetuates a culture of non-tax compliance. Countries in sub-Saharan Africa have responded to this challenge by imposing direct taxes on revenue generated in the informal sector. This thesis discussed the informal sector taxation regimes adopted in Tanzania, Ghana and Zimbabwe, with the aim of identifying direct taxes that could be imposed in South Africa on the revenues generated in the informal sector. The goal of the research was to determine the nature of direct taxes that could be imposed in South Africa on the revenues generated in the informal sector, taking lessons from the sub- Saharan countries of Tanzania, Ghana and Zimbabwe. The research was based in the interpretivist paradigm. The data for the research consisted of documentary data dealing with the legislation and experiences of informal sector taxation in South Africa and the countries forming part of this research. The data were analysed using qualitative non-empirical research methods. South Africa has a presumptive tax model in the form of the Turnover Tax system, and it was recommended that this direct tax could be adapted to integrate the informal sector businesses into the tax base. The study made several recommendations to integrate informal sector businesses into the tax base. These recommendations include the implementation of the tax stamp system to tax informal businesses other than minibus taxi businesses, and an income tax sticker specifically designed for the informal minibus taxi industry. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
- Authors: Ledwaba, Sophy
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Informal sector (Economics) Taxation South Africa , Turnover tax South Africa , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Tanzania , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Ghana , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Zimbabwe , Small business Taxation Law and legislation South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/357571 , vital:64756
- Description: Most informal sector businesses in developing countries participate indirectly in the tax system through paying Value-Added Tax, as well as import and export duties, without being registered as taxpayers. This effectively results in the collection of lower tax revenue than the informal businesses would be liable for if they were registered as taxpayers. Additionally, the nonregistration of informal sector businesses in the tax system perpetuates a culture of non-tax compliance. Countries in sub-Saharan Africa have responded to this challenge by imposing direct taxes on revenue generated in the informal sector. This thesis discussed the informal sector taxation regimes adopted in Tanzania, Ghana and Zimbabwe, with the aim of identifying direct taxes that could be imposed in South Africa on the revenues generated in the informal sector. The goal of the research was to determine the nature of direct taxes that could be imposed in South Africa on the revenues generated in the informal sector, taking lessons from the sub- Saharan countries of Tanzania, Ghana and Zimbabwe. The research was based in the interpretivist paradigm. The data for the research consisted of documentary data dealing with the legislation and experiences of informal sector taxation in South Africa and the countries forming part of this research. The data were analysed using qualitative non-empirical research methods. South Africa has a presumptive tax model in the form of the Turnover Tax system, and it was recommended that this direct tax could be adapted to integrate the informal sector businesses into the tax base. The study made several recommendations to integrate informal sector businesses into the tax base. These recommendations include the implementation of the tax stamp system to tax informal businesses other than minibus taxi businesses, and an income tax sticker specifically designed for the informal minibus taxi industry. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
The practical implications of taxing the informal sector in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mashate, Fredy
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Zimbabwe , Small business Taxation Law and legislation Zimbabwe , Tax administration and procedure Zimbabwe , Taxpayer compliance Zimbabwe , Taxation Public opinion , Zimbabwe. Revenue Authority , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Tanzania , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/357594 , vital:64758
- Description: The taxation of informal sector business is increasingly becoming a topical issue in many developing countries, and Zimbabwe is no exception. The Zimbabwean government has been experiencing shrinking revenue in the wake of an increased informal sector and a declining formal sector. In an effort to broaden the tax base and increase revenue for government in Zimbabwe, presumptive tax levied against certain informal sector activities was first introduced in 2005 and later expanded to other sectors. Despite the effort, the informal sector has responded with low tax morale and non-compliance, which creates the need to reassess the current administrative strategies in a bid to build a successful tax system for the informal sector. The main goal of the research is to establish clear, innovative and practical administrative strategies that can be adopted by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority in taxing the informal sector in Zimbabwe. An initial investigation was done to identify the current state of affairs in relation to informal sector taxation in Zimbabwe. A number of challenges were recorded and the research the sought to learn from examples of recent innovation in administrative strategies successfully applied in taxing the informal sector in other jurisdictions like Tanzania and Ghana. Learning from these examples, a number of practical administrative strategies that are mindful of the Zimbabwean economic context were proposed. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
- Authors: Mashate, Fredy
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Zimbabwe , Small business Taxation Law and legislation Zimbabwe , Tax administration and procedure Zimbabwe , Taxpayer compliance Zimbabwe , Taxation Public opinion , Zimbabwe. Revenue Authority , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Tanzania , Informal sector (Economics) Taxation Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/357594 , vital:64758
- Description: The taxation of informal sector business is increasingly becoming a topical issue in many developing countries, and Zimbabwe is no exception. The Zimbabwean government has been experiencing shrinking revenue in the wake of an increased informal sector and a declining formal sector. In an effort to broaden the tax base and increase revenue for government in Zimbabwe, presumptive tax levied against certain informal sector activities was first introduced in 2005 and later expanded to other sectors. Despite the effort, the informal sector has responded with low tax morale and non-compliance, which creates the need to reassess the current administrative strategies in a bid to build a successful tax system for the informal sector. The main goal of the research is to establish clear, innovative and practical administrative strategies that can be adopted by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority in taxing the informal sector in Zimbabwe. An initial investigation was done to identify the current state of affairs in relation to informal sector taxation in Zimbabwe. A number of challenges were recorded and the research the sought to learn from examples of recent innovation in administrative strategies successfully applied in taxing the informal sector in other jurisdictions like Tanzania and Ghana. Learning from these examples, a number of practical administrative strategies that are mindful of the Zimbabwean economic context were proposed. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
Transfer pricing: an analysis of legislation in the southern African Customs Union
- Authors: Patel, Nabil Ahmed
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Transfer pricing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/241482 , vital:50943
- Description: Transfer pricing is defined as the setting of the price for goods sold and services rendered between related entities. For example, if a subsidiary company sells goods or renders services to its holding company or a sister company, the price charged is referred to as the transfer price. Transfer pricing can be used to manipulate profits and facilitate tax evasion. Therefore, it is important that countries enact transfer pricing legislation to prevent this. The United Nations (UN) and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guideline documents form the basis for most global legislation and conventions dealing with transfer pricing. The over-arching goal of this research was to investigate whether transfer pricing legislation in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) aligns between SACU countries and with the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. The research applied a legal interpretive doctrinal research methodology and a qualitative research method. The data comprised primary legislation in the SACU countries, transfer pricing guidelines issued by revenue authorities in the SACU, OECD Guidelines, the UN Manual and journal articles. It was found in this study that certain aspects of transfer pricing legislation in the SACU are not fully aligned to each other and to the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. This study proposed recommendations to improve transfer pricing legislation in the SACU. These improvements include the introduction of transfer pricing legislation in Eswatini and Lesotho, and updating transfer pricing legislation in Namibia and South Africa in terms of the latest versions of the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Patel, Nabil Ahmed
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Transfer pricing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/241482 , vital:50943
- Description: Transfer pricing is defined as the setting of the price for goods sold and services rendered between related entities. For example, if a subsidiary company sells goods or renders services to its holding company or a sister company, the price charged is referred to as the transfer price. Transfer pricing can be used to manipulate profits and facilitate tax evasion. Therefore, it is important that countries enact transfer pricing legislation to prevent this. The United Nations (UN) and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guideline documents form the basis for most global legislation and conventions dealing with transfer pricing. The over-arching goal of this research was to investigate whether transfer pricing legislation in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) aligns between SACU countries and with the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. The research applied a legal interpretive doctrinal research methodology and a qualitative research method. The data comprised primary legislation in the SACU countries, transfer pricing guidelines issued by revenue authorities in the SACU, OECD Guidelines, the UN Manual and journal articles. It was found in this study that certain aspects of transfer pricing legislation in the SACU are not fully aligned to each other and to the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. This study proposed recommendations to improve transfer pricing legislation in the SACU. These improvements include the introduction of transfer pricing legislation in Eswatini and Lesotho, and updating transfer pricing legislation in Namibia and South Africa in terms of the latest versions of the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
An interpretation of the deeming provisions in legislation in the context of a good tax system: a South African perspective
- Authors: Mostert, Tarita
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development , Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , Taxpayer compliance South Africa , Tax evasion (International law) , Deeming provisions
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190897 , vital:45039 , 10.21504/10962/190897
- Description: The goal of this thesis is to analyse the relationship between deeming provisions in legislation and the principles of a good tax system. The need for a positive relationship between deeming provisions and the principles of a good tax system is demonstrated in the thesis. The research explains the historical development of deeming provisions, legal principles relevant to the interpretation of tax legislation, as well as the principles of a good tax system. Approaches to the interpretation of legislation are then described and illustrated by means of case law. Following this, the research focuses on a selection of provisions in the South African Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962, to determine whether the deeming provisions included in the Act reflect the application of the principles of a good tax system. In addition to the analysis of the selected statutory provisions, related case law is discussed, again in relation to the deeming provisions. A discussion of deeming provisions in two publications of the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) – the OECD Model Tax Convention and the OECD Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Measures to Prevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting – follows, with an analysis of two related deeming provisions in the Income Tax Act, to illustrate the international approach to deeming provisions and the principles of a good tax system. Finally, the administration of tax legislation is discussed, together with organisations whose mission is to promote the principles of a good tax system in tax administration. The research is qualitative in nature and follows a legal doctrinal research methodology. This methodology is both reform-oriented and theoretical and focuses on understanding the application of the legal concepts: deeming provisions, legal principles and principles of a good tax system. The research concludes that, from a theoretical perspective, a positive relationship exists between deeming provisions in the Income Tax Act and the OECD Model Tax Convention and the principles of a good tax system, and therefore creates a positive environment for tax compliance. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Mostert, Tarita
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development , Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , Taxpayer compliance South Africa , Tax evasion (International law) , Deeming provisions
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190897 , vital:45039 , 10.21504/10962/190897
- Description: The goal of this thesis is to analyse the relationship between deeming provisions in legislation and the principles of a good tax system. The need for a positive relationship between deeming provisions and the principles of a good tax system is demonstrated in the thesis. The research explains the historical development of deeming provisions, legal principles relevant to the interpretation of tax legislation, as well as the principles of a good tax system. Approaches to the interpretation of legislation are then described and illustrated by means of case law. Following this, the research focuses on a selection of provisions in the South African Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962, to determine whether the deeming provisions included in the Act reflect the application of the principles of a good tax system. In addition to the analysis of the selected statutory provisions, related case law is discussed, again in relation to the deeming provisions. A discussion of deeming provisions in two publications of the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) – the OECD Model Tax Convention and the OECD Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Measures to Prevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting – follows, with an analysis of two related deeming provisions in the Income Tax Act, to illustrate the international approach to deeming provisions and the principles of a good tax system. Finally, the administration of tax legislation is discussed, together with organisations whose mission is to promote the principles of a good tax system in tax administration. The research is qualitative in nature and follows a legal doctrinal research methodology. This methodology is both reform-oriented and theoretical and focuses on understanding the application of the legal concepts: deeming provisions, legal principles and principles of a good tax system. The research concludes that, from a theoretical perspective, a positive relationship exists between deeming provisions in the Income Tax Act and the OECD Model Tax Convention and the principles of a good tax system, and therefore creates a positive environment for tax compliance. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
An analysis of ways in which the South African tax system could be simplified
- Authors: Young, Gail Jeni
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South African Revenue Service , Tax administration and procedure -- South Africa , Tax accounting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178235 , vital:42923
- Description: It has been said that the fundamental paradox of tax simplification is that, despite consensus, almost every year tax rules become more complex. This thesis considers tax simplification measures which have been implemented internationally, in order to provide a basis for an analysis of ways in which the South African tax system could be simplified. A doctrinal methodology is applied, and an analysis is carried out of possible tax simplification measures, based on the commentary of experts in the field of tax law. Simplification measures adopted in the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States of America, Egypt, and certain European countries are discussed, together with their possible adoption in South Africa. Tax simplification has a broad scope. This research identifies four areas in which the South African tax system could simplified: the simplification of tax legislation, addressing the role of accounting in the simplification process, reducing the number of taxes currently levied, and finally addressing the complexities evident in the SARS e-filing system. This thesis illustrates several measures which could be used to address the current areas of complexity. Re-writing tax legislation to assist the understanding of taxpayers is suggested. An increase in the inclusion rate for individuals of capital gains in taxable income from 40% to 60% is suggested, to compensate for the loss of revenue due to the recommended repeal of donations tax and estate duty. Aligning tax legislation with accounting standards is identified as a possible area for simplification, as there are many similarities between the two systems. To address the usability of SARS’ e-filing platform, suggestions are made regarding the further pre-population of returns, introducing e-invoicing and providing a “sandbox” function that taxpayers could use to familiarise themselves with how e-filing works. This research highlights tax simplification as a process that needs to be prioritized in order to achieve the associated benefits. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Young, Gail Jeni
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South African Revenue Service , Tax administration and procedure -- South Africa , Tax accounting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178235 , vital:42923
- Description: It has been said that the fundamental paradox of tax simplification is that, despite consensus, almost every year tax rules become more complex. This thesis considers tax simplification measures which have been implemented internationally, in order to provide a basis for an analysis of ways in which the South African tax system could be simplified. A doctrinal methodology is applied, and an analysis is carried out of possible tax simplification measures, based on the commentary of experts in the field of tax law. Simplification measures adopted in the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States of America, Egypt, and certain European countries are discussed, together with their possible adoption in South Africa. Tax simplification has a broad scope. This research identifies four areas in which the South African tax system could simplified: the simplification of tax legislation, addressing the role of accounting in the simplification process, reducing the number of taxes currently levied, and finally addressing the complexities evident in the SARS e-filing system. This thesis illustrates several measures which could be used to address the current areas of complexity. Re-writing tax legislation to assist the understanding of taxpayers is suggested. An increase in the inclusion rate for individuals of capital gains in taxable income from 40% to 60% is suggested, to compensate for the loss of revenue due to the recommended repeal of donations tax and estate duty. Aligning tax legislation with accounting standards is identified as a possible area for simplification, as there are many similarities between the two systems. To address the usability of SARS’ e-filing platform, suggestions are made regarding the further pre-population of returns, introducing e-invoicing and providing a “sandbox” function that taxpayers could use to familiarise themselves with how e-filing works. This research highlights tax simplification as a process that needs to be prioritized in order to achieve the associated benefits. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
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