- 6 Marks
Question
Free Zone means area or building declared as a free zone by publication in commercial and industrial bulletins. It includes Single Factory Zones, Free Ports, Free Airports, and other specified areas. Free Zone operations are export-led and aimed at promoting foreign earnings for Ghana.
Required:
What mitigation measures will a Free Zone Enterprise adopt to reduce its tax liabilities and raise enough benefits to the shareholders?
Answer
A Free Zone Enterprise can adopt the following measures to mitigate its tax liabilities and maximize shareholder benefits:
- Tax Exemption for the First 10 Years:
Free Zone Enterprises enjoy full corporate tax exemption for the first 10 years of operation. This significantly reduces the tax burden during the initial growth phase. - Reduced Tax Rate on Exports:
After the 10-year tax holiday, Free Zone Enterprises are taxed at a reduced rate of 15% on income from export activities. This reduced rate continues to provide tax relief compared to the standard corporate tax rate of 25%. - Dividend Exemption:
Dividends declared by Free Zone Enterprises to shareholders are exempt from withholding tax. This encourages profit distribution to shareholders without additional tax liabilities. - Import Duty Exemptions:
Free Zone Enterprises are exempt from import duties on raw materials, machinery, and equipment. This reduces the overall cost of production, leading to higher profitability and benefits for shareholders. - Exemption from VAT and NHIL:
Free Zone Enterprises are exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT), National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), and GETFund Levy on their activities. This further reduces operational costs and increases profitability.
- Tags: Corporate Tax, Export, Free Zone, Tax Mitigation
- Level: Level 3
- Topic: Tax planning
- Series: APR 2022
- Uploader: Kwame Aikins