Overview of Tax Compliance in Cambodia

The Southeast Asian nation of Cambodia is renowned for its extensive past, lively culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam all encircle it. Buddhism is the main religion, and Khmer is the official language. The King serves as the head of state in this constitutional monarchy. Cambodia's taxation rules fluctuate depending on the taxpayer's system, and the classification of taxpayers under the General Department of Taxation's (GDT) varied tax collection and monitoring methods. Cambodia achieved yearly economic growth of over 10% between 2004 and 2008. According to projections, the GDP will grow 5.4% in 2022 and 6.6% in 2023.

Tax Compliance and its importance

Tax compliance is the observance of the government's legal rules and laws concerning taxation. It entails accurately reporting income, deductions, and obligations and paying taxes on time. Tax compliance is critical for preserving the financial system's integrity and fairness and funding public services and economic progress.

When it comes to tax compliance, both individuals and corporations have unique duties. Individuals must file personal income tax forms, record taxable income, and claim applicable deductions and exemptions. They must adhere to deadlines and meet their financial responsibilities. Promoting tax compliance necessitates a multifaceted strategy. It entails promoting knowledge about tax duties, making tax education and resources available, and implementing effective tax collection procedures. To encourage voluntary compliance, incentives can also be used.

Classification of Taxpayers in Cambodia

The taxpayers are categorized based on the annual turnover made in Cambodia and the annual value of the assets in Cambodia. The taxpayers in Cambodia are classified into three types:

1. Small
2. Medium
3. Large

Types of Taxes in Cambodia

• Income Tax: A corporate tax levied on a corporation's earnings or net income. Cambodia's normal corporate income tax (CIT) rate is 20%, levied through a self-assessment method. Companies and permanent establishments (PEs) classified as small taxpayers, on the other hand, face CIT rates ranging from 0% to 20%.
• Capital Gains Tax: The standard capital gains tax rate is 20%. Immovable property, leases, foreign currency, goodwill, intellectual property (IP), and investment assets are all subject to this tax. When an asset's ownership changes, these types of taxes are levied.
• Value Added Tax: Value Added Tax, is levied on the sale of both products and services, as well as fixed assets. These operations mostly focus on the apparel, textile, and footwear sectors. VAT is levied at 10% on the value of most products and services given to organizations operating under the self-declaration regime. VAT returns and payments must be submitted within twenty days after the end of the month following. The regular VAT rate is 10%, but certain enterprises might qualify for a 0% VAT rate if they participate in activities that benefit exporters.
• Accommodation Tax: The Accommodation Tax is an indirect tax of 2% levied on hotel and guest home accommodations. The individual or company providing the accommodation services is responsible for remitting this tax to the tax administration no later than the 20th of the month after the supply.
• Public Lighting Tax: Alcohol and tobacco products are subject to the Public Lighting Tax, which is an indirect tax levied in Cambodia. The provider of these goods is obligated to pay this tax to the tax authority at a rate of 3%. By the 20th of the month following the month in which the supplies were produced, payment must be made.
• Unused Land Tax: The Commission for Valuation of Unused Land determines the tax amount based on the market value of the land per square meter. The landowner has to pay it on or before September 30 each year at a rate of 2%. Land not covered by the Transfer of Immovable Property regulations is subject to this tax.
• Patent Tax: Businesses must pay a small patent tax when they first register their company and on a yearly basis thereafter. This tax applies to all of the company's business activities. The patent tax is calculated based on the company's turnover or expected turnover. Every year, businesses tax within three months of the end of the must file a patent tax return and pay the fiscal year.
• Specific Tax on Certain Merchandises and Services (SPT): SPT is an excise tax paid on the importation, domestic production, and distribution of particular goods and services. When it comes to locally produced items, PT is normally levied on the SPT base, which is determined as 90% of the invoice price before VAT and the SPT. The ST is levied on a variety of domestic and international goods and services, with rates ranging from 3% to 45%. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and cigarettes are examples of items covered by this ST, as well as certain services such as entertainment, domestic and international flying tickets, and telephone services.
• Withholding Tax: The amount of money that an employer deducts from an employee's total pay and reports to the government is known as withholding tax. This tax applies to both domestic and foreign businesses operating in Cambodia. In Cambodia, resident corporations are not subject to dividend withholding tax; however, non-resident companies must pay a rate of 14 percent. The tax rate on interest, royalties, and technical service fees is 15% for resident corporations and 14% for non-resident companies.
• Minimum Tax: Taxpayers with insufficient accounting records must pay a minimal tax. The minimum tax owing is one per cent of total revenue, excluding value-added tax (VAT), regardless of whether the taxpayer makes a profit or a loss. 
• Tax on means of transport: All types of vehicles and means of travel are subject to the levy that the Ministry of Economy and Finance has put in place. The Prakas of the Ministry will choose the specific tax rate and amount due. This transportation tax consists of a number of registration fees for particular types of vehicles, such as trucks, buses, and ships.

Other taxes

• Registration Tax
• Tax on Property Rental
• Property Tax

Challenges Faced in Tax Compliance

1. Lack of knowledge and comprehension of tax legislation: Many Cambodians may be unfamiliar with the country's tax laws and regulations. This lack of information might result in accidental noncompliance or lost opportunities to benefit from available tax breaks and exemptions. It is critical for taxpayers to remain up to date on the current tax legislation and, if necessary, seek expert guidance.
2. Complexities in tax calculations and reporting: Tax computations and reporting can be complicated, especially for firms with many income sources, costs, and tax kinds. The complexities of the Cambodian tax system, such as varied tax rates and thresholds, can make it difficult to compute and submit taxes effectively. Taxpayers may need to commit time and resources to learn the rules and ensure compliance.
3. Inefficient administrative processes: Tax compliance frequently entails a number of administrative chores, such as registration, record-keeping, submitting returns, and payments. Administrative processes that are inefficient can stymie compliance efforts and raise the probability of mistakes or delays. To simplify and automate tax-related duties, taxpayers must adopt simplified processes and use digital technologies when available.
4. Tax evasion and noncompliance: Despite regulatory agencies' attempts to enforce tax compliance, tax evasion, and noncompliance continue to be serious concerns in many countries, including Cambodia. To decrease their tax bills, some people and corporations may intentionally underreport incomes, inflates costs, or engage in other fraudulent acts. This not only jeopardizes the integrity of the tax system but also creates an unfair playing field for law-abiding taxpayers. Improving enforcement procedures and implementing fines for noncompliance are critical steps toward resolving these issues.

Services offered by Enterslice

• International Tax Advisory Services: As the world becomes more globalized, companies frequently participate in cross-border transactions with complicated international tax ramifications. Enterslice's worldwide tax advising services offer clients comprehensive advice on international tax planning and global tax compliance. Their knowledge assists firms in navigating the difficulties of worldwide taxation and optimizing their global tax status. 
• Corporate Tax and Regulatory Compliance: It is critical for companies to comply with corporate tax legislation in order to retain their financial health and avoid penalties. Enterslice helps businesses meet their corporate tax responsibilities by offering expert advice on tax strategy, compliance, and reporting. They guarantee that companies comply with constantly changing tax regulations, reduce risks, and optimize their tax strategy.
• Income Tax Notice Assistance: Receiving an income tax notice can be stressful, but Enterslice is well-equipped to offer experienced advice and help. Their skilled team of specialists helps clients comprehend and respond to income tax notifications, ensuring compliance with applicable rules and regulations.
• Corporate Tax (Research and Development Tax): Enterslice understands the value of research and development (R&D) efforts to enterprises. They provide full corporate tax services, including specialized advice on obtaining R&D tax incentives. Clients may optimize their tax status and R&D tax benefits by utilizing their knowledge.
• Corporate Tax Advice Services: Enterslice's corporate tax counseling services are tailored to the unique needs of enterprises in a variety of industries. Their skilled tax specialists provide tailored solutions, such as tax planning, structuring, and risk management techniques. Businesses may make educated decisions, minimize tax bills, and maximize profits by utilizing their experience.

International Tax Planning: Enterslice offers comprehensive international tax planning services based on a thorough grasp of international tax laws and regulations. They assist firms in optimizing their worldwide tax positions through the identification of tax-efficient structures, the evaluation of cross-border transactions, and the adherence to international tax legislation. Their services allow enterprises to grow worldwide while minimizing tax liabilities.