CATA Launches First AEOI Roundtable: A Milestone in Peer Learning and Implementation Support

CATA proudly hosted the first in a series of Roundtable discussions on the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) today, marking a key milestone in our collective journey toward enhanced tax transparency and international cooperation.

Background: AEOI Working Group and Workstreams

The AEOI Roundtable series is part of a broader initiative led by the AEOI Working Group, which was established during the CATA Annual Technical Conference held in Mauritius in 2024. The Working Group is chaired by Mr Gautham Mukundan of India, with Mr Femi Edgal of Nigeria serving as Vice Chair.

To support member countries through the various stages of AEOI implementation, the Working Group launched two focused workstreams:

• Development of Training Materials – led by Mr Mukundan, this stream aims to assist tax administrations in guiding their Reporting Financial Institutions (RFIs).

• Roundtable Series on Practical Implementation – led by Mr Edgal, this stream facilitates peer-to-peer learning through structured discussions on key stages of AEOI implementation.

First Roundtable: Focus on Preparatory Steps

The inaugural Roundtable brought together representatives from over 20 member countries, reflecting the strong commitment across the Commonwealth to collaborative learning and capacity building. Chaired by Mr Femi Edgal, the session focused on the initial preparatory work required for implementing AEOI, including:

• Signing the Multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters

• Signing the Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement (MCAA)

• Understanding the Notification and Activation Process

• Establishing the domestic legal framework necessary to begin implementation

The session opened with experience-sharing presentations from three member countries. We were honoured to welcome expert speakers:

• Ms Monica Bhatia from India

• Mr Andrew Deak from Canada

• Ms Vanja Stok from Australia

Their insights shed light on the critical preparatory steps and early experiences in setting up the framework for AEOI implementation.

In her opening remarks, CATA Executive Director Dr Esther A.P. Koisin welcomed participants and emphasised the importance of collaboration and mutual support. She thanked the Chair and speakers for their leadership and contributions, and reaffirmed CATA’s commitment to supporting member countries throughout their AEOI journey.

This successful first Roundtable sets the stage for future sessions, each designed to explore specific aspects of AEOI implementation. We look forward to continued engagement and collaboration in the upcoming discussions.