Technology startups in Cameroon receive favourable tax incentives to stimulate investment and promote the growth of the digital economy. These include a reduced income tax rate of 5% on interest paid to investors and dividends paid to shareholders, and on movable capital revenue. This strategy is part of the government’s plan to foster entrepreneurship, attract investment, and support the development of the technology sector in the country.
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What is dividends paid to shareholders?
Cameroon offers a tax incentive to encourage investment in technology startups. Any dividends paid to shareholders and income tax on movable capital revenue or investor interest are taxed at a reduced rate of 5%. The government aims to stimulate the growth of the digital economy, entrepreneurship, and attract more investment to the tech sector. Startups and investors should, however, consult tax professionals to understand the eligibility criteria and other associated requirements.
What is income tax on movable capital revenue?
Technology start-ups in Cameroon enjoy a reduced 5% tax rate on income from movable capital revenue, dividends, and interest payments, as part of a government initiative designed to encourage entrepreneurship and technology investment. The aim is to stimulate growth in the digital economy. Start-ups and investors are advised to consult tax professionals to fully understand the scope and conditions of these incentives.
Incentives for Promoting the Digital Economy: Boosting Start-ups in the Digital Sphere
Cameroon’s General Tax Code offers tax advantages and incentives to ICT start-ups registered in approved management centers to foster innovation and support the digital economy. During the incubation phase, start-ups are tax exempt, giving them financial freedom to focus on growth. Technological innovation is encouraged through a 30% income tax credit on associated expenses. During the operational phase, further benefits continue, such as reduced tax rates, exemptions, and preferential rates on capital gains from sales. After five years, start-ups transition to the regular tax system, maintaining their established foundations.
Understanding Income Tax Credit
Income tax credit, a government incentive, enables taxpayers to lessen their tax liability. For instance, in Cameroon, start-ups engaging in research and innovation can benefit from a tax credit of up to 30% on their expenses, capped at 100 million CFA francs. This incentive encourages technological advancements, job creation, and overall economic growth.
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Open-end investment companies
Open-end investment firms, known as SICAVs (SociĂ©tĂ© d’Investissement Ă Capital Variable), are financial structures pooling funds from investors for diversified portfolio investments like stocks, bonds, or other instruments. Offering unlimited shares, SICAVs offer liquidity and risk diversification, while being subject to regulatory oversight for investor protection. These companies are tax-exempt in Cameroon.
Mutual investment funds
Mutual investment funds pool capital from numerous investors and offer access to professionally managed, diversified investment portfolios. They have varying objectives like capital appreciation and income generation, detailed in the prospectus. Managed by professionals, mutual funds issue, redeem units as per investor interest and follow robust risk management practices. They’re subjected to regulatory oversight for investor protection and transparency. Interestingly, they are exempted from paying company tax in Cameroon.
Cooperative societies
Cooperative societies are voluntary associations that promote the economic and social well-being of their members by pooling resources and undertaking collective activities. Key features include democratic control, active member benefit, limited return on capital, and emphasis on education and training. These cooperatives operate across various sectors and can increase bargaining power, improve resource access, and promote sustainable practices. Cooperatives’ structure and benefits are subject to local regulations, such as tax exemptions in Cameroon. Assistance is readily available for those interested in forming or participating in cooperatives.