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In today's interconnected world, businesses often need to transfer data across borders to ensure smooth operations and compliance with international regulations. The EDPB has recently published the final version of its guidelines on data transfers to third-country authorities, providing crucial insights for businesses and the general public.

The landscape of international trade compliance has become increasingly complex, with EU sanctions enforcement reaching unprecedented levels and Incoterms remaining the cornerstone of global commercial transactions. As we progress through 2025, businesses must navigate these interconnected frameworks with precision to avoid costly violations and maintain competitive advantage.

In today's innovation-driven economy, your intellectual property represents one of your business's most valuable assets. But did you know that the moment you file for trademark protection, you become a target for sophisticated fraudsters?

On 14 April 2025, EU finance ministers formally adopted the ninth amendment to the Directive on Administrative Cooperation in Tax Matters - DAC9. The new rules introduce a reporting and information exchange framework designed to implement the OECD's global minimum tax (Pillar Two) efficiently and consistently across EU Member States.

Setting up or expanding a business in Malta comes with notable advantages, especially when it comes to accounting. Maltese regulations offer a level of flexibility that can simplify how companies manage their financial records and reporting. From where you keep your accounts to how you structure your chart of accounts, Malta provides options designed to support diverse business needs while ensuring compliance.

In today's complex financial landscape, identifying potential money laundering activities has become increasingly challenging. The Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU) has recently released a guidance document outlining critical red flags within financial statements and non-financial information that compliance professionals should be vigilant about.

Starting January 2025, small businesses can enjoy VAT exemptions on cross-border EU trade without multi-jurisdiction registrations.

The Budget Implementation Act, 2025 (the "Act") introduces amendments to the Income Tax Act, the Income Tax Management Act, the Duty on Documents and Transfers Act, and the VAT Act. Most changes take effective from the date of publication unless stated otherwise.

For years, multinational enterprises have navigated uncertainty at the intersection of VAT and transfer pricing (TP) regulations. The central question remains unresolved: Are TP adjustments simply outside VAT's scope, or do they represent modified consideration for goods or services that should attract VAT?

Malta is positioning itself as a platform to enable entrepreneurship and businesses to prosper and achieve their international ambitions. With a high ratio of AI startups to residents and a supportive environment for innovation, Malta offers a unique opportunity for businesses looking to expand in the tech sector. The country's strategic geographic location, robust regulatory framework, and government support make it an attractive destination for tech startups and investors.

The FATF identifies jurisdictions with insufficient measures against money laundering and terrorist financing in two public documents released three times annually. The FIAU supports these documents through a Guidance Note on High Risk and Non-Cooperative Jurisdictions, requiring subject persons to adhere to the FATF's findings. This ensures enhanced compliance and vigilance in financial operations.

In a world of impersonal transactions, we believe business success hinges on meaningful relationships and trusted guidance. As Europe charts a bold new course with its Competitiveness Compass, organisations need more than generic advice.

Until 31 December 2024, VAT was levied on live-streamed events, including live virtual events, where that event took place. This means that live-streamed events were subject to VAT in the country in which the event was taking place, even if the viewers were located in a different jurisdiction.

Grant Thornton Malta, in association with 12 Grant Thornton member firms in Europe are launching the very first study aimed at establishing an overview of the DPO (Data Protection Officer) function in the main European countries. This survey, of about 8 minutes, will allow us to establish a precise inventory, revealing the reality of the today's DPO function not only in Malta but also in our principal European neighbors. As part of the response analysis, you may be asked by our teams for an interview to comment on the results. Please note that the questionnaire is active until December 15, 2023. We sincerely appreciate the time you have taken to contribute to this study.

On the 5th of November 2024, the European Council approved a set of measures designed to modernise the EU's value-added tax (VAT) framework for the digital era. The legislative package includes new regulations for electronic invoicing, real-time data reporting, and transactions conducted via digital platforms. These changes aim to combat tax fraud, support businesses, and advance digitalisation.

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) has been conducting a number of consultations to gather valuable insights as part of the review and update of the Financial Institutions Rulebook. As part of this process the MFSA released further enhancements to the Financial Institutions Return (FI Return), governed by Chapter 3 of the Financial Institutions Rulebook (FIR/03).