ATAF welcomes adoption of draft terms of reference for UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation

ATAF was actively involved in this process, collaborating with member states, the African Union, and other pan-African organisations to ensure Africa’s interests were well represented.

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Press Release

Pretoria, 17 August 2024,

The Intergovernmental Committee on International Tax Cooperation has adopted the Draft Terms of Reference (ToR) for a United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation. This is a significant step towards establishing a global tax system that is inclusive, transparent, and meets the needs of all nations, including the 44 member states of the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF).

ATAF was actively involved in this process, collaborating with member states, the African Union, and other pan-African organisations to ensure Africa’s interests were well represented. The adoption of the ToR follows the UN General Assembly Resolution 78/230, which highlighted the need for stronger international tax cooperation to address issues such as tax evasion, avoidance, and illicit financial flows.

The draft ToR outlines the objectives of the framework convention, including the creation of an inclusive and effective system of international tax cooperation. It also lays the groundwork for developing protocols on taxing income from cross-border services in a digitalised economy and other priority areas.

Mr Logan Wort, ATAF Executive Secretary, stated, “The adoption of these Terms of Reference is a crucial step towards a fair and equitable international tax system. ATAF is proud to have played a role in ensuring that the voices and needs of developing countries are addressed.”

Negotiations based on the adopted ToR will begin in 2025 and are expected to result in the final text of the framework convention by 2027.

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For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Nshimiyimana Fikiri

Manager: Communications and 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.