ATAF Hosts Virtual Peer Learning Workshop on VAT and Cross-Border Digital Services
The session brought together tax officials from across Africa. Kenya, Nigeria, and Zambia presented their experiences, while Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, and Burkina Faso officials participated in the peer learning discussions.
The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) hosted a Virtual Peer Learning Workshop on 15 May 2025 that focused on the VAT Compliance Regime for Cross-Border Supply of Digital Services.
The session brought together tax officials from across the continent. Kenya, Nigeria, and Zambia presented their experiences, while Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, and Burkina Faso officials participated in the peer learning discussions.
Kenya outlined its legislative and administrative framework for taxing digital services, including requirements for non-resident supplier registration and enforcement mechanisms. Officials also shared lessons learned since implementing the regime.
Nigeria’s presentation focused on compliance and enforcement strategies. It highlighted efforts to collaborate with digital platforms and raise public awareness to support VAT collection.
Zambia shared recent efforts to implement VAT on digital services, including early enforcement challenges, system upgrades, and legal adjustments aimed at improving compliance.
A moderated discussion followed the presentations, allowing participating countries to ask questions, seek clarification, and share their perspectives. Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, and Sierra Leone engaged actively in the exchange, discussing practical aspects of enforcement, registration, and legislative design.
The discussion reflected a strong collective interest in developing fit-for-purpose VAT frameworks that capture cross-border digital activity while ensuring administrative feasibility and minimising compliance burdens.
In closing, ATAF reiterated its commitment to supporting member countries through technical assistance and continued peer learning on emerging tax challenges in the digital economy.
