SEDD, FTA discuss Tax Compliance & E-linking

HE Hamad Ali Abdalla Al Mahmoud, Chairman of Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) received a delegation from the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) headed by HE Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director General of FTA, and his accompanying delegation, at SEDD main building. The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation to provide the necessary capabilities for the business sector, investors, and customers to achieve sustainable economic development that serves various economic sectors in UAE, in implementation of the directives of the country's wise leadership.

The meeting discussed awareness of tax compliance among registered business owners licensed in Sharjah, highlighting ways to enhance compliance by submitting tax returns in line with the country's applicable tax laws and regulations. Likely, the meeting addressed developments in the electronic linkage project between the Department and the Authority, which aims to improve the efficiency of procedures and exchange data and information in a secure and integrated manner, thus contributing to improving the quality of services and enhancing transparency.

Commenting on the meeting, HE Hamad Ali Abdulla Al Mahmoud, SEDD Chairman, emphasized on the importance of the strategic partnership with the Federal Tax Authority, praising its efforts to develop the tax system across the country. HE added that SEDD is committed to implementing a strategy of cooperation and working with various partners to provide its services in accordance with the best international practices and support various economic sectors, achieving better integration in operations and supporting the business community in Sharjah.

Furthermore, HE Al Mahmoud stated that the Economic Department in Sharjah seeks to raise the level of tax compliance among establishments and provide an organized work environment consistent with best practices, which will positively impact the economic development process in the emirate in particular and the country in general.

From his side, HE Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director General of FTA, said that this meeting comes to strengthen cooperation and relations between the two sides. HE added that the Authority is keen to promote its strategic partnerships with relevant entities and institutions in the tax sector in both the public and private sectors. This supports efforts to sustainably develop the tax system, maintain a tax environment that encourages compliance, and ensures the provision of distinguished services to the business community, investors, and entrepreneurs.

Moreover, HE Al Bustani expressed his gratitude to SEDD for its commendable efforts and continuous cooperation in contributing to further enhancing the services provided to taxpayers and encouraging them to self-comply. Also, he clarified that this cooperation represents an effective model for mutual action to intensify tax awareness activities and implement effective measures to enhance tax culture and encourage tax compliance among business sectors in general, and particularly in Sharjah.

At the end of the meeting, both parties stressed on the importance of enhancing future cooperation in line with government service standards and holding such meetings on an ongoing basis, given their significant role in achieving the goals and strategies of both sides in supporting tax compliance and developing the business environment, in addition to accelerating development processes, enhancing investment activity, and unifying efforts and work.