GDT betters online system to streamline DTA

GDT betters online system to streamline DTA

The new ‘DTA Implementation Management System’ offers taxpayers an option to apply entirely online for residence certificates, tax rates under DTA agreements and credits.

The General Department of Taxation (GDT) Tuesday announced an enhancement to its double taxation agreement (DTA) implementation management system, enabling taxpayers to apply fully online for tax benefits aimed at boosting efficiency, reducing administrative burdens and increasing transparency.

The improvement of the ‘DTA Implementation Management System’ was directed by the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) and approved by Kong Vibol, Director General of GDT, on August 4.

According to the announcement released on August 12, GDT has continuously upgraded its information technology infrastructure, including launching the GDT e-Administration programme since the previous instructions issued in 2018 and 2019.

These initiatives aimed to facilitate compliance, reduce processing times and support investors by simplifying access to tax benefits under international agreements, the statement said.

The new ‘DTA Implementation Management System’ offered taxpayers the option to apply entirely online for residence certificates, tax rates under DTA agreements and credits.

This digital transformation is expected to reduce administrative burdens on enterprises and enhance transparency in tax-related processes, strengthening investor confidence in Cambodia.

To apply for DTA benefits, taxpayers can visit the official website and use their existing accounts or register for a new one. Applicants must complete the online forms by selecting the relevant application type and uploading supporting documents.

After verification, applicants can either save their application as a draft to complete later or submit it immediately to GDT. This flexibility benefitted businesses by allowing them to prepare applications thoroughly, thereby enhancing the quality of submissions and expediting processing times.

Based on the announcement, GDT also offered a tracking feature via the GDT Check & Track application, enabling users to monitor their application status in real-time. Once applications are approved, GDT will notify the applicant by email, providing a unique code to print the residence certificate directly from the system.

In case of application rejection, the system will inform applicants of the decision and provides reasons for denial. Enterprises can now access this information online, enabling them to address issues promptly and resubmit applications, if necessary, thereby improving overall compliance rates.

The authenticity of certificates and notifications issued through the DTA Implementation Management System can be verified via QR codes using the GDT Check & Track app.

For additional support, users can consult the DTA Implementation Management System User Guide or contact the GDT Call Centre at 1277. GDT also offered a live chat service and disseminates information through the Cambodian tax information Telegram channel to ensure comprehensive taxpayer assistance.

By adopting this modernised system, MEF and GDT demonstrated their commitment to improving Cambodia’s tax framework, making it more accessible and responsive to the needs of domestic and international businesses operating in the Kingdom.

The streamlined procedures will contribute to a more attractive investment climate by simplifying how enterprises claim DTA benefits, reducing compliance costs and supporting broader economic growth objectives through enhanced cross-border trade facilitation.

Tax service agents, accountants, business owners and directors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new DTA system to optimise tax planning strategies. Leveraging these tools can help reduce the burden on businesses and promote sustainable investment in the country.

This improved approach to DTA management aligned with international best practices and strengthened Cambodia’s position in the regional and global economic landscape by fostering greater tax cooperation and reducing the risk of double taxation for investors.

The GDT’s digital transformation in tax administration is a key pillar of Cambodia’s broader efforts to attract FDI, support economic diversification and boost competitiveness in an interconnected marketplace.

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