Compliance, the cloud and clarity dominate discussion at Tax Indaba 2015

Issued by Rubicomm for CRS Technologies
Johannesburg, 15 Sep 2015

Nicolette Nicholson, head of legislation at CRS Technologies.

Issues around governance and compliance for cloud-based businesses, as well as the relevance of the new generation business and clarity of terminology were the main points raised during the Tax Indaba 2015, according to HCM and HR services provider CRS Technologies.

CRS Technologies, a South African company specialises in human capital management and HR solution development and integration, including support services. CRS is a sponsor of the Tax Indaba 2015, a business and trade focused event hosted at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

Nicolette Nicholson, head of legislation at CRS Technologies, said the event proved that the tax industry has a language of its own. "The International Tax sessions were crowded with acronyms like BEBS, PES,BID,TP, CTC, OECD, ATAF etc, and one realised that the tax world is connected through a common language which is only understood by those who makes sure companies remain compliant and stay clear from harmful tax practices."

Discussion also highlighted the different tax treaties and bi-lateral investment treaties and the relevance of each.

"It was also noted that the Protection of Investment bill seems to be incompatible with International law and concerns around that was discussed," said Nicholson.

Impact of the cloud

As a leader in HCM and HR, with specific attention to the way businesses should manage practical, day-to-day issues (like tax and legislation), CRS Technologies has a vested interest in the relevance of the cloud, how businesses are positioned to leverage this resource and, at the same time, comply with regulation.

"A number of interesting points were raised around cloud-based businesses, those with a range of customers. The question of where the permanent establishment would be if the service is across borders was also posed, meaning 'where would the place of business be registered' and 'to whom is corporate taxes payable'," Nicholson said.

Global transport app service Uber was highlighted as an example of a new generation business model.

Exchange control amendments and transfer pricing proved to be hot topics that sparked vigorous debate.

The lessons learned for African countries were discussed around the administration reform challenges for revenue departments of developing countries. "It is clear that we as the continent of Africa can learn from each other and share success stories," Nicholson added.

CRS HR & Payroll Solutions

CRS HR & Payroll Solutions is a provider of services and solutions to the Human Resources and Payroll markets in Africa in general and South Africa in particular.

Established in 1985, the company has served as the premier provider of HR systems, solutions and remuneration products to business across expanding market segments.

Its product portfolio encompasses everything the decision maker in business requires to support the rollout of an effective HR and payroll strategy.

The company's foremost reputation as a reliable service provider and trader in rapidly expanding market segments and to blue chip companies is underpinned by its affiliation and partnership with a number of respected, industry-regulatory bodies.

CRS is a signatory to the Information Technology Association (ITA) and a member of the Payroll Authors Group of South Africa.

It is also a member of the South African Payroll Association, South African Rewards Association and the Institute of People Management.

Its expertise and business acumen within these mission-critical aspects of business management have ensured that it remains an ultra-competitive, secure and unrivalled market performer.

CRS provides a service to numerous countries throughout Africa, including Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland, Lesotho and Mozambique.

The continent is viewed as being a thriving, high-growth market and one that the company will continue to add value to.

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