TOP STORIES THIS WEEK:

Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax in the UAE from January 1, 2025

Large multinational enterprises (MNEs) operating in the UAE will be subject to a minimum 15 percent tax on profits generated within the country, an increase from the existing corporate tax rate of 9 percent. This change will apply to financial years beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

UAE Signs CEPA Agreements with Malaysia, Kenya, and New Zealand

The UAE has signed trade agreements with Malaysia, Kenya, and New Zealand to enhance its post-oil economy and foster open trade and investment policies. These Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) now require to be ratified by both sides before implementation.

Understanding Saudi Arabia’s Green Financing Framework 

Saudi Arabia published its Green Financing Framework (GFF) in March 2024. The GFF aims to mobilize financial resources to fund green projects and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.

Saudi Arabia Labor Law Amendments: Preparing for Compliance in 2025

Saudi Arabia announced amendments to its Labor Law in August 2024, which will come in effect from February 2025 (that is, 180 days following publication in the official gazette). The amendments introduce enhanced worker protections, expanded employer obligations, and structured frameworks for contracts, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

SAIC Motor’s US$135 Million Deal in Egypt: A Strategic Move Amid Global Trends

Chinese state-owned SAIC Motor Corp. Ltd. has partnered with the Mansour Group in Egypt in a US$135 million deal to set up an automotive plant in New October City.

COMPLIMENTARY BUSINESS RESOURCES:

An Introduction to Doing Business in India 2025

Compiled by the experts at Dezan Shira & Associates, the "Doing Business in India 2025" guide introduces the fundamentals of investing in India, covering key topics such as India’s investment climate, corporate establishment, tax, transfer pricing, audit, and accounting, human resources and payroll, trade policy, and data protection measures.

An Introduction to Doing Business in ASEAN 2025

This publication is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in all ten ASEAN countries and includes a guide to corporate establishment, tax advisory, and bookkeeping, in addition to HR and payroll, double tax agreements, and audit and compliance.

An Introduction to Doing Business in China 2025

Doing Business in China 2025 is out now and available for free download! It is designed to guide new and established investors in China with updated policy changes. 

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR ASIA:

Cost Control Series: Boosting HR Effectiveness in China with Innovative Compensation, PEO and Flexible Workforce in 2025

Webinar | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 | 4:00 PM China / 3:00 PM Vietnam / 1:30 PM India / 9:00 AM CET

Trump 2.0: Navigating the Future of US-Asia Trade Relations

Webinar | Thursday, January 23, 2025 | 9:00 AM Los Angeles / 12:00 PM New York

Tax Filing in Indonesia – A Complete Guide for Individuals and Companies

Webinar | Thursday, 23 January 2025 | 3:00 PM JKT / 4:00 PM China / 9:00 AM CET