KUWAIT: Kuwait hosted the 14th meeting of the Committee of Heads and Directors of Tax Departments in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on Tuesday, focusing on the latest developments in tax policies, particularly the application of selective tax and value-added tax (VAT) across the region. Discussions also explored strategies to enhance taxation frameworks in line with global best practices and further strengthen economic integration among member states.

Chaired by Aseel Suleiman Al-Munifi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, the meeting saw the participation of senior tax officials from GCC countries, including Khaled Ali Al-Sunaidi, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs at the GCC Secretariat. The gathering is part of ongoing efforts to achieve greater coordination in financial and tax policies, supporting economic growth and ensuring financial sustainability across the region.

KUWAIT: Aseel Suleiman Al-Munifi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, chairing the committee of Heads and Directors of Tax Departments in the GCC.

Al-Munifi emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in shaping effective tax policies. “This meeting represents an opportunity to reinforce cooperation, exchange expertise, and coordinate policies to achieve integration in the tax field,” she said. She also highlighted Kuwait’s role in leading discussions to address challenges and align tax strategies, stating, “Through Kuwait’s presidency of this 14th meeting, we aim to work collectively — removing obstacles, exploring new opportunities, and advancing economic development across the region.”

She also conveyed the greetings of Minister of Finance and Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment, Noura Suleiman Al-Fassam, who expressed confidence in the impact of this meeting. “Bringing together leading tax officials from the GCC, this forum is an essential step toward building a tax system that balances economic and social objectives, ensures fairness in expenditure distribution, facilitates the business environment, and enhances coordination among tax authorities,” she conveyed.

Al-Munifi reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to fostering stronger tax cooperation within the GCC. “We remain dedicated to supporting joint GCC efforts that refine tax coordination mechanisms. We hope this meeting leads to meaningful outcomes that strengthen the region’s tax system and promote economic unity,” she concluded.