The Inland Revenue Department has published an updated list identifying debt instruments and government securities that qualify for profits tax exemptions or concessions as of 31 March 2026. This list is intended for taxpayers who hold qualifying instruments such as certain bonds, treasury bills, and corporate debentures, enabling them to claim tax relief under the provisions of the Inland Revenue Ordinance. Eligibility criteria include the nature of the instrument, its issuance date, and the specific terms that align with the department’s definition of tax‑exempt securities. The publication details the tax treatment for each category, explaining that interest income derived from these qualifying instruments is exempt from profits tax, thereby reducing the overall tax burden on investors. It also clarifies the reporting requirements, noting that while the income is exempt, taxpayers must still maintain proper documentation and may need to disclose the holdings in their tax returns for verification purposes. The department highlighted transitional arrangements that allow taxpayers to claim exemptions for the 2025/26 tax year by submitting the appropriate declaration together with their tax filings. This initiative aims to provide greater clarity and encourage investment in permissible financial products while ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Detailed guidance on claiming the concessions, including forms and submission deadlines, is available on the IRD’s official website.

Keep Reading