Saudi Arabia has underlined the importance on paying tax and announced rewards of up to SR1m ($267,000) for violation reports.

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has urged people to report tax evasion cases and announced rewards for the public who successfully identify violations.

ZATCA spokesperson Hamoud Al Harbi emphasised the authority’s commitment to creating an attractive environment for traders and investors in various business sectors in the Kingdom through ensuring fair market competition and compelling taxpayers to comply all zakat, tax, and customs regulations.

Saudi tax fines and rewards

Al Harbi said taxpayers’ compliance with regulations is bound to lead to an increase in business activities, in line with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, contributing to the growth of the national economy and its diversification.

He urged individuals to take advantage of the services and 130 guiding principles provided by ZATCA through its website, which helps educate taxpayers on the authority’s procedures and services.

Al Harbi stressed that ZATCA conducts daily inspection and follow-up operations to monitor the tax situation and prevent tax evasion.

Tax-evasion cases are dealt with through the rules, procedures and penalties stipulated in the Value Added Tax and Selective Tax mechanisms.

Moreover, the authority may decide to make public decisions to penalise tax evaders, for accountability and to discourage such practice, ultimately improving the national economy.

Al Harbi highlighted the need to combat tax evasion, and the practice of submitting incorrect data, and fabricating or modifying invoices. Similarly, importing, producing, or possessing goods without proper registration is a form of selective tax evasion, he said, urging taxpayers to cooperate with the Authority and disclose accurate information voluntarily, to ensure fairness.

Al Harbi called on the public to report cases of tax evasion. The authority provides rewards, at the highest 2.5 per cent of the value of violations and fines, with a maximum of SR1m ($267,000) and a minimum of SR1,000 ($267), to those who report violations proven valid.

ZATCA may be contacted for inquiries via: