https://arab.news/9pax9
RIYADH: Syria’s Finance Ministry has announced a major overhaul of the country’s tax system, set to take effect in early 2026, as part of broader efforts to modernize fiscal policy, enhance transparency, and attract investment.
According to a statement carried by the state-run SANA news agency, the draft law for the new income tax system is currently open for public consultation until July 30. The reforms are designed to ease the burden on taxpayers, promote fairness, and stimulate economic activity through clearer and more equitable rules.
Under the proposed system, individuals earning less than $12,000 annually will be fully exempt from income tax, in a move aimed at supporting low-income earners.
Corporate tax rates will be tailored by sector, replacing the current “flat income committees” with a more transparent and structured mechanism.
The reforms will also unify multiple charges into a single tax fee to eliminate double taxation, while offering deductions for taxpayers who make verified social contributions.
Enhanced digital systems—including mandatory electronic invoicing and QR code integration—will be introduced to curb tax evasion and strengthen compliance.
To improve trust and streamline the resolution of tax disputes, the ministry plans to implement simplified procedures, with complex cases referred to a specialized tax court. Notably, the burden of proving income sources will shift from the taxpayer to the tax authority—a significant change from the existing framework.
In addition, incentives will be introduced for timely payment, and a separate initiative will address the settlement of outstanding tax dues to protect public funds without overburdening taxpayers.
The Finance Ministry said the changes reflect its commitment to building a fair, flexible, and modern tax environment that can support Syria’s broader economic recovery.