BIR Commissioner Lumagui leads Philippine Negotiating Panel for Double Taxation Agreement with Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

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BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr. and Hong Kong SAR Inland Revenue Department Commissioner Benjamin Chan Sze-wai during the first round of negotiations for the Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) held on May 21 to 23, 2025, at the Inland Revenue Centre, Kowloon, Hong Kong.

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr. led the Philippine Negotiating Panel in the initial round of talks for the Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China. The negotiations were held from May 21 to 23, 2025, at the Inland Revenue Centre in Kowloon, Hong Kong.

The three-day discussions reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening international tax cooperation, fostering economic partnerships, and ensuring fair and equitable taxation on cross-border income. The Hong Kong SAR delegation was headed by Commissioner Benjamin Chan Sze-wai of the Inland Revenue Department.

“We recognize the importance of the DTA in fostering economic growth, promoting investment, and providing clarity for businesses and individuals operating in both jurisdictions. The BIR is open to all international discussions that aims to promote the economic situation of all parties. We are here to find a win-win solution for all our international partners,” said Commissioner Lumagui.

The inaugural round of negotiations saw both sides engage in constructive discussions and exchange views on key provisions of the proposed treaty. These included mechanisms to prevent double taxation, tax relief measures, and frameworks for mutual cooperation between the two tax authorities.

While significant progress was made, Commissioner Lumagui underscored the need to carefully address the remaining open issues to ensure a fair and balanced agreement. “These matters require further deliberation to reach a comprehensive and equitable outcome that serves the best interests of both the Philippines and Hong Kong,” he noted.

The Philippine and Hong Kong SAR Negotiating Panels have agreed to hold a second round of negotiations at a mutually convenient date to resolve outstanding issues and finalize the agreement.

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