FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release
Pretoria, 28 August 2024,
The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) has released a comprehensive toolkit designed to assist member countries in joining the
ATAF Agreement on Mutual Assistance in Tax Matters (AMATM). The AMATM treaty is a pivotal tool in the fight against tax evasion and avoidance by facilitating cooperation among African tax administrations.
In a globalised economy, multinational companies and wealthy individuals can easily move resources across borders, making it difficult for tax administrations to assess and collect the correct taxes. The AMATM provides a framework for African countries to cooperate in tax matters, including the exchange of taxpayer information, joint audits, and assistance in recovering tax debts held abroad. The treaty is aligned with international best practices and is open to all ATAF members.
The new toolkit outlines the practical steps for African countries to join the AMATM including the signatories, the delegation of authority, the ratification process and the final submission of the instruments to ATAF.
ATAF Executive Secretary Mr. Logan Wort emphasised the treaty’s importance, stating, “The AMATM is a critical instrument for enhancing tax cooperation across Africa. It supports our members in closing information gaps and ensuring that taxes owed are collected, contributing to the development of public services. This toolkit will empower our members to take full advantage of the treaty’s provisions.”
ATAF encourages all members to utilise the toolkit and join the AMATM, furthering the continent’s efforts to combat illicit financial flows and support economic integration under initiatives such as the
African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). ATAF members interested in joining the treaty are invited to contact the ATAF Secretariat at communications@ataftax.org.
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For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Nshimiyimana Fikiri
Manager: Communications & Marketing, ATAF
Tel: +27636893901
Email: fikirin@ataftax.org
About ATAF
The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) is a platform that brings together African tax administrations to engage in mutually beneficial discussions and capacity-building initiatives. ATAF works towards promoting efficient and effective tax systems that contribute to the sustainable development of African nations.
