Asia Briefing’s India Focused Regulatory and Operationa l Business Updates

TOP STORIES THIS WEEK:

Switzerland to Suspend MFN Clause for India under DTAA from January 1, 2025

On December 11, 2024, Switzerland suspended the Most Favored Nation (MFN) clause under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India. The MFN treatment will cease to apply from next year. Starting January 1, 2025, dividend payments from Swiss entities to Indian investors will be taxed at 10 percent, up from the current 5 percent.

India’s SEBI Tightens Rules, Reporting Norms for Foreign Portfolio Investors

India’s Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) introduced stricter regulations on December 17, 2024, to govern offshore derivative instruments (ODIs) and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs). These updates, effective immediately for most FPIs and ODIs, aim to enhance oversight of offshore derivative transactions in India’s capital markets.

Quick Commerce Market in India and Key Players

E-commerce is poised to achieve massive growth in India, with the quick commerce market expected to reach US$5 billion by 2025 and US$9.94 billion by 2029. Key growth drivers include changing consumer preferences, easy internet access, demand for convenience among millennials and Gen Z, and diversified purchasing habits – moving beyond essential items to buying high-value goods.

India-Serbia Bilateral Trade and Business Ties: A 2024 Report

India and Serbia continue to deepen their bilateral ties, leveraging shared values and a growing partnership that spans trade, investments, and cultural exchanges. High-level engagements, including agreements in defense, IT, agriculture, and cultural cooperation, have set an ambitious roadmap for growth.

India Eyes US$3 Billion Incentive Package to Boost Electronics R&D and Manufacturing

In a significant move to strengthen the domestic electronics sector, the Indian government is developing a US$3 billion incentive package to promote private sector research and development (R&D) and foster the creation of homegrown electronics brands.

COMPLIMENTARY BUSINESS RESOURCES:

Guide to Corporate Taxation and Compliance in China 2025

Guide to Corporate Taxation and Compliance in China 2025 provides an overview of key taxes and obligations for foreign businesses in China. Ideal for CFOs, compliance officers, and accounting leads, it helps navigate complex tax regulations to effectively manage and plan China-based operations.

An Introduction to Doing Business in the UAE 2025

Whether you are a multinational corporation seeking new markets or a small business owner exploring global expansion, ‘An Introduction to Doing Business in the UAE 2025’ is your definitive resource for understanding and succeeding in one of the world’s most vibrant business environments. This issue covers corporate establishment and business closure procedures, location intelligence, tax, audit, and transfer pricing, as well as HR and payroll considerations.

Investing in Vietnam's Modernizing Logistics Sector

With its strategic geographic position, rapidly expanding industrial infrastructure, and government initiatives aimed at enhancing the logistics environment, Vietnam offers a wealth of opportunities for both domestic and international investors. This issue of Vietnam Briefing Magazine will serve as a key resource for investors seeking to enter this dynamic market.

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR ASIA:

Doing Business in India 2025: Strategic Insights for Investors

Webinar | Wednesday, January 15, 2025 | 2:30 PM India / 4:00 PM Vietnam / 5:00 PM China

Investing and Doing Business in Vietnam 2025: Key Sectors, FTAs and FDI Opportunities

Webinar | Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 4:00 PM Vietnam, 5:00 PM China, 10:00 AM CET

Cost Control Series: Boosting HR Effectiveness in China with Innovative Compensation, PEO and Flexible Workforce in 2025

Webinar | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 | 4:00 PM China / 3:00 PM Vietnam / 1:30 PM India / 9:00 AM CET