Japan is considering a temporary withdrawal of the 8% reduced consumption tax on food for up to two years, with the bill slated for the Autumn 2026 Diet session. The move would cut annual tax revenue by about ¥5 trillion, while the current standard rate remains 10% with an 8% reduced rate for food. The ruling LDP has resisted the cut, citing the tax's importance for funding social security.
In Autumn 2026, for up to two years.
Approximately ¥5 trillion annually.
10%, with an 8% reduced rate for food.
Because it is essential for funding social security costs.
It would cost about ¥5 trillion in lost revenue.
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KPMG · about 2 months ago
Japan’s ruling coalition agreed in December 2025 to an outline of 2026 tax reform proposals covering corporate, international, consumption, and individual tax. The proposals include amendments to Pillar Two global minimum tax rules and new measures for consumption tax, R&D credits, and domestic production incentives. The outline is indicative and subject to legislative approval.
VatCalc · about 24 hours ago
From 23 August 2026, non‑resident providers of digital services to Azerbaijani consumers must register with the tax administration and charge 18% VAT, replacing the previous withholding‑tax regime. The VAT registration threshold is AZN 17,000 per annum, and the current VAT rate of 18% applies to all domestically supplied digital services. Implementation guidance and FAQs are expected before the August deadline.
PV Tech · 1 day ago
China has removed the 9% export VAT rebate on PV modules, marking a shift from price‑led subsidies to value‑based competition. The change is expected to raise costs for manufacturers and influence module pricing across markets. The policy reflects industry maturity and a focus on quality, efficiency, and long‑term bankability.
Vietnam Briefing · 3 days ago
Vietnam’s 2025 VAT Law expands refund eligibility to investment projects, exporters, and 5%‑rate businesses with at least VND 300 million in accumulated input VAT, while tightening documentation and audit requirements. Key changes include removal of refunds for ownership or structural changes, stricter rules for deferred payments, and new limits on import‑export refund eligibility.
The Hindu · 4 days ago
India’s GST rationalisation introduced a two‑tiered rate structure of 5% and 18% in September 2025, boosting domestic consumption. However, February 2026 saw a sharp rise in import IGST collections—up 17% YoY—driven by a weaker rupee and higher import costs, which may erode the price relief from the new rates.
RTC Suite · 5 days ago
Singapore’s GST InvoiceNow e‑invoicing mandate will extend to all GST‑registered businesses with a phased rollout from 1 April 2028 to 1 April 2031, based on annual supply thresholds. Early adopter windows for voluntary registrants began in May 2025, with mandatory transmission required for new registrants by April 2026. The requirement uses the Peppol standard and exempts overseas entities and reverse‑charge‑only registrants.
