李旭红︱增值税立法：迈向税收法治化的新里程碑︱天竺语税

Core Viewpoint - The enactment of the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Law marks a significant milestone in China's tax legal system, enhancing the legal authority of VAT and ensuring taxpayer rights, while requiring complementary reforms for effective implementation [1][2][3]. Group 1: Significance of VAT Legislation - The VAT legislation signifies that VAT, which has been in practice for over thirty years and is the largest tax type, now has a legal basis, enhancing its authority and protecting taxpayer rights [2]. - The legislation deepens the principle of tax legality, marking a substantial advancement in the legal framework of tax governance, and ensures that the adjustment of tax rates and collection scope is subject to legislative oversight [3]. Group 2: Key Highlights of VAT Legislation - The VAT Law maintains the existing tax system framework while ensuring continuity in tax policy and market expectations, consisting of six chapters and thirty-eight articles [6]. - The law expands the tax base and clarifies the taxable scope, ensuring transparency and reducing disputes in tax collection [8]. - The legislation improves the VAT deduction chain, promoting fair competition and preventing double taxation through a more complete and efficient VAT deduction system [9]. Group 3: Recommendations for Complementary Reforms - Enhancing the invoice management system is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of VAT legislation, with a focus on integrating electronic invoicing and big data for better tax administration [14]. - The implementation of the VAT Law requires systematic complementary regulations to ensure smooth transitions and effective execution, particularly in clarifying tax incentives and monitoring tax burdens [15]. - There is a need to adapt VAT management to the digital economy and cross-border service trade, including establishing rules for deducting taxes on digital assets and improving governance frameworks for cross-border transactions [16][17].