SALALAH: In a significant move to bolster tax awareness and compliance, the Tax Authority, in collaboration with governmental and private entities, has launched a comprehensive month-long 'Tax Culture' initiative in Dhofar Governorate. The programme, inaugurated at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Dhofar branch on August 4, 2024, targets auditing firms and Sanad offices.
Representatives from the Tax Authority outlined recent advancements in the tax regime, shedding light on the methodologies employed in tax calculation and their application across various industries. The presentation emphasized the crucial role of corporations in adhering to tax regulations and maximizing available tax incentives, underscoring the importance of compliance. Additionally, the workshop highlighted entities eligible for tax exemptions and featured practical case studies to demonstrate tax implications in different scenarios. The session concluded with a detailed explanation of the appeals process against tax rulings.
Shaikh Nayef Fadhil, Chairman of OCCI - Dhofar branch, praised the Tax Authority's educational initiative. He noted that this effort marks a significant step towards enhancing tax awareness among the business community and the general public, reinforcing the concept of tax citizenship, and fostering a sustainable national economy.
"The initiative addresses a critical need for greater transparency and fairness within the tax system," said Shaikh Fadhil. "This will improve the business environment, attract investments, and bolster public revenues, essential for supporting Oman's comprehensive development. Collaboration between the private sector and the Tax Authority is vital for promoting a culture of tax compliance, building mutual trust, and serving the greater national interest." Parallel to the Dhofar branch programme, similar workshops were held at the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Complex, targeting government sector institutions, and at the Salalah Free Zone, focusing on economic and special zones as well as free zones.
The initiative features several key activities, including the establishment of special Tax Authority outlets within various governmental and private entities across Dhofar. These outlets aim to provide tax advisory services to citizens and business owners. Additionally, the initiative includes organizing workshops, educational lectures, and field visits to explain tax laws and regulations, enhance tax compliance, and raise awareness.
Notably, the Tax Authority's awareness initiative aims to spread tax culture across all governorates of Oman. Its goals include refining and improving tax services based on taxpayer feedback, recognizing them as integral partners in the tax system's success. The initiative also seeks to increase tax compliance and registration rates, thereby promoting the use of electronic services.
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