Global Newsletter 04/2025 Archive - ECOVIS International

Withholding tax refunds: New ruling aims to accelerate procedures for foreign companies in Germany

The Federal Fiscal Court (BFH) has ruled that foreign shareholders who are entitled to a refund of withheld capital gains tax on profit distributions are entitled to interest under EU law. This generally applies three months after the application for a refund of the excess capital gains tax is submitted. The Ecovis experts explain more.

Trademark protection China: How companies can protect their brands

Companies seeking to protect their trademarks in China can utilise various administrative and judicial methods. The Ecovis experts explain what needs to be considered.

JPK_CIT: Correctly submitting accounting and tax return data

Since 1 January 2025, certain companies have been required to report detailed financial data in a standardised electronic format, the JPK_CIT. All other companies must also comply with the new reporting requirement by 2027. The Ecovis consultants know exactly what the new rules entail and when they apply to which companies.

Commercial Court NRW: New standards in international business law

On 3 April 2025, the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia launched its new Commercial Court at the Higher Regional Court in Düsseldorf, focusing on business law disputes, such as company mergers, corporate law, construction contracts and insurance claims. The reform offers strategic advantages for companies and legal advisors engaged in cross-border business with the ability to conduct proceedings entirely in English, which is a first for ordinary civil courts in Germany.

Family-owned business in Spain: a hidden treasure for investors and strategic buyers

For companies seeking to establish a foothold in Spain or seeking resilient, profitable, and committed partners, family businesses offer fertile ground for long-term value creation. The Ecovis experts understand the opportunities offered by one of the most dynamic M&A markets.

VAT law China: A new era for tax compliance in China

The long-awaited VAT law, which represents a comprehensive modernisation of the Chinese tax system, will come into effect on 1 January 2026. It will align more closely with global standards such as the OECD VAT Guidelines. This will have implications for businesses.

Tax reform Brazil: Alignment with International Standards

With the tax reform, the Brazilian government intends to introduce a new tax collection model. It is intended to support fiscal sustainability and alignment with global standards. The new system is scheduled to come into force in 2027. One of the most important changes is the introduction of the split payment model. The Ecovis experts explain what this means.

Payment Extensions for Taxes in Vietnam: Which Deadlines Will Apply in the Future?

Companies and business individuals and households are being given more time: The Vietnamese government has extended the deadlines for paying value added tax, corporate and personal income tax, and land rent for 2025. The Ecovis consultants know which deadlines now apply.

Peru: When lack of documentation triggers a dividend recharacterization

In a recent resolution, the Peruvian Tax Court analysed a case in which funds from a company were deposited directly into the personal bank account of its legal representative without supporting documentation. The Peruvian tax authority (SUNAT) treated such deposits as undeclared dividends. The Ecovis experts explain the court’s ruling, which contradicts this view.

China company credit report: No trace left

China will no longer publicly report companies removed from the list of abnormal business relationships. The revised measures already took effect on 1 May 2025. The Ecovis experts explain what this means and who can apply for removal from the “blacklist” under the social credit system.

Labour law Czech Republic: Flexibilisation of Czech labour law from 1 June 2025

The “flexi-amendment” of the Czech Labour Code, also known as the “flexinovela”, will come into force on 1 June 2025. The aim is to make the Czech Republic more competitive through a modern and flexible labour market. The Ecovis experts know which changes companies need to be aware of now.