Ministry Contemplates VAT on Non-life Insurance Claims

Mar 4 , 2023


[ssba-buttons]

Officials of the Ministry of Finance are considering imposing a 15pc Value Added Tax (VAT) on non-life insurance claims paid by insurance companies, according to a bill up for discussion with stakeholders last week. The bill, which was debated at the Ministry's headquarters on King George Street, could be a reversal of the exemption previously granted to insurers from paying VAT. Officials acknowledged that insurance companies had been exempted from paying VAT on non-life insurance claims for the past two decades, but noted that the insurance industry had since matured. However, representatives from some insurance companies see the move could discourage policyholders. Wasihun Abate, the discussion moderator and tax advisor, has given insurers a fortnight to make a supported argument with evidence including data from other countries. It remains to be seen whether this proposed bill will be enacted and how it could impact both the insurance industry and policyholders in Ethiopia.


Radar

Central Bank, Global Alliance Partner to Enhance Sustainable

The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) recently hosted a high-level meeting with representatives from the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV) and selected member banks in anticipation of the 17th GABV Annual Meeting scheduled in Uganda. The meeting convened commercial bank representatives from Ethiopia, alongside a delegation comprising six GABV members, including Centenary Bank and Opportunity Bank Uganda, Amalgamated Bank, Sunrise Banks, City First Bank, and Merkur Cooperative Bank. G...


Radar

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Adjusts Loan Interest Rates Amid Market Reforms

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) has announced adjustments to its loan interest rates, effective March 7, 2025. Bank executives cited rising deposit mobilisation costs and the need to align with market standards as key factors influencing the decision, despite successful internal reforms that have reduced operational expenses. Executives noted that these adjustments are crucial for maintaining its competitive edge and ensuring the continued delivery of efficient services to its clientele. ...


Radar

Chemical Corp Posts Substantial Revenue, Profit Growth in 1Q

The state-owned Chemical Industry Corporation recorded a revenue of 2.53 billion Br in the first half of the 2024/2025 financial year. The Corporation reported a profit before tax of over half a billion Birr, which marks a considerable 182.6pc increase compared to the same period last year. Company officials attributed the growth result to enhanced market reach, effective cost-cutting measures, and optimisation of plant capacity utilisation. Year-on-year revenue growth was noted across variou...