The Income Tax Bill 2025 establishes comprehensive criteria for ...

New Income Tax Bill Expands Source-Based Taxation Rules for Digital Economy Through Significant Economic Presence Framework

February 26, 2025

Notes     Bill

The Income Tax Bill 2025 establishes comprehensive criteria for income deemed to accrue or arise in India, focusing on four primary categories: income from Indian assets/sources, property, business connections, and capital asset transfers. The legislation introduces significant provisions for digital economy taxation through the Significant Economic Presence (SEP) concept, while maintaining traditional nexus rules. Key elements include expanded definitions of royalties encompassing digital rights, technical service fees excluding construction projects, and refined business connection tests. The framework incorporates substantial value derivation tests for indirect transfers, with specific exemptions for portfolio investors and small shareholders. This modernized approach aligns with OECD BEPS recommendations while preserving India's sovereign taxation rights, particularly in digital commerce and cross-border transactions.

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