Guernsey zero-10 tax changes get European Union formal approval

Changes to Guernsey's corporate tax regime, to make it comply with European rules have been formally approved by the European Union (EU).

The EU's council of finance ministers ratified the Zero-10 system following the removal of deemed distribution.

Under the island's tax system most corporations pay no tax, while others pay 10% and a small number pay 20%.

Chief Minister Peter Harwood said the formal endorsement gave the island's companies certainty for the future.

Previously the system had been deemed "harmful" by the EU's Code of Conduct Group.

The area that was removed, deemed distribution of business profits, meant island residents who were shareholders of island companies would pay personal income tax on any unallocated company profits, while anyone living off-island would not.

Similar changes to the Isle of Man and Jersey tax systems, which had also been described as "harmful" were formally approved by the European Union at the end of last year.

Deputy Harwood said hard work had led to the island's tax system complying with the code and it being recognised as meeting the standards of good governance in tax matters.

He said this was despite "the misinformation and misperceptions that continue to be perpetuated in some quarters about our jurisdiction".