How To Prepare TP Local File
How To Prepare TP Local File
Introduction
i. Overview
XYZ Form (hereafter referred to as “we” or “XYZ” or “us”) has been engaged to assist in preparing
local transfer pricing (“TP”) documentation for ABC Company (“ABC Company” or “the Company”)
for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2023 (“FY2023”).
The report has been written to conform to the requirements of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (“KSA”)
TP rules contained in the Transfer Pricing Bylaws (Article 17) (“KSA TP Bylaws”), Transfer Pricing
Guidelines issued by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (“ZATCA”) (“KSA TP Guidelines”) (Third
Edition November 2021), and the Income Tax Law of the KSA (“KSA Tax Law”) - hereafter,
collectively referred to as the “KSA TP Regulations”.
In addition, the principles outlined in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and
Development’s (“OECD”) Transfer Pricing Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and Tax
Administrations, January 2022 (“OECD TP Guidelines”) have also been referred for preparation of
this report, wherever any matter is not addressed in the KSA TP Regulations.
The purpose of this report is to review and document the following intercompany transactions of
ABC Company (hereafter referred as “Controlled Transactions”) and to determine whether these
intercompany transactions were performed at arm’s length.
Our understanding of the activities of ABC Company, analyzed in this report is based on discussions
with personnel of ABC Company, information available in the public domain, and other documents
supplied by ABC Company. We have asked ABC Company to review the report and confirm that
there are no material misunderstandings or misrepresentations of the facts gathered during its
preparation. We have not independently audited or otherwise verified any of the facts, assumptions
or representations contained in this report. Any changes in the facts, assumptions or
representations upon which we have relied, may require a modification of all or part of these
conclusions.
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This report represents our conclusions only and should not be taken as an assurance of the ultimate
treatment of the Controlled Transactions by ABC Company and/or tax authorities of other
jurisdictions in which ABC Company corporation and its group entities (“Travel Designer”) operates
in. The analysis contained in this document is not binding on the tax authority and should not be
considered as an assurance that the tax authority will necessarily agree with our conclusions or that
ABC Company and related persons will prevail if a contrary position is adopted by the tax authority.
Any other tax matter, including, but not limited to, other corporate income tax aspects, value added
tax (“VAT”) or customs issues, as well as accounting and legal matters, which may or may not relate
to the intercompany transactions under review, fall outside the scope of this report.
Section 1 provides details on the scope of the report while Section 2 presents the executive
summary of the report.
Section 3 provides an overview of ABC Company overall business and sets out the
background to operations of ABC Company.
Section 4 provides an industry analysis to provide the context for which the Controlled
Transactions took place. In this section, we have summarized the main features of the
industry in which ABC Company operates, with a focus on growth trends globally and in the
KSA.
Section 5 explains in detail the nature of the Controlled Transactions; while Section 6
contains a functional analysis, which outlines the functions performed, risks assumed, and
assets employed by ABC Company and its related persons with respect to the Controlled
Transactions.
Section 7 contains the economic analysis and an overview of the transfer pricing methods
that were used to examine the Controlled Transactions. These sections of the report also set
out why a particular transfer pricing method was chosen and how it was applied to the
Controlled Transactions by reference to a comparability analysis.
More information about the KSA TP Regulations, OECD TP Guidelines, comparability analysis and
technical aspects of our comparability analysis can be found in the appendices.
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2. Executive Summary
i. Overview
XYZ prepared this report to review and document the Controlled Transactions entered by ABC
Company with its related persons in FY2023 to determine whether they meet the arm’s length
principles as set out in the KSA TP Regulations.
Sr.
Contents of Local File (Article 17 of KSA TP Bylaws) Reference
No.
ABC Company’s information, including:
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d) copies of all intercompany agreements concluded by ABC Company; Appendix 3
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(f) size;
(g) demand and supply trends;
(h) entry requirements;
(i) key international target markets;
(j) market share; and Section 4
(k) modes of delivery.
Financial information, including:
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b) Results
The analysis determined that the "Cost Plus method" is the most appropriate transfer pricing
approach for ABC Company. Additionally, a corroborative analysis confirmed that applying this
method ensures that the revenue earned by ABC Company, after accounting for all transactions,
complies with the arm’s length standard from a KSA transfer pricing perspective.
iv. Conclusion
Based on the above, it can be concluded that the Controlled Transactions of ABC Company
conducted during FY2023 appear to be consistent with the arm’s length principle from a KSA TP
perspective.
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3. Company Analysis
i. Introduction
This section provides the Company’s information, including description of the management
structure, organization chart, description of the individuals to whom the Company’s management
reports and the countries in which such individuals maintain their principal offices, description of
the business and business strategy pursued by the Company, indication whether the Company has
been involved in or affected by business restructurings or transfer of intangible property.
The Company is primarily engaged in the business of Reservation of transportation, restaurants and
car rental, Reservation and marketing of tourist accommodation units and Tourism promotion
activities. As mentioned, ABC Company operates businesses in a variety of regions throughout the
world namely Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
COUNTR GENERA
Y L BDM
MANAG MANAG
ER ER
SALE
CLERK MANAGER &
SALE
EXECUTIVE
Designation and
Key functional
jurisdiction to
head and
Role of the key functional head whom the key
department
functional head
reports to
The Country manager is responsible for Managing
Country
Operations, Develop Business & Increase -
Manager
Profitability of the Company in Specific Region of the
Country.
Key
Designation and
functional Role of the key functional head jurisdiction to
head and
whom the key
department
functional head
reports to
General Manager is High Ranking Executive who is
GM responsible for overall performance and success of Country Manager
business units, Division or even an entire company
BDM is responsible for Driving Business, Attract New
Client, Research new Markert Opportunity, and GM & Country
BDM
oversee growth project making sale project and Manager
forecasting revenue.
d) Business strategy
ABC Company should focus on market penetration by building brand awareness and expanding its
customer base in Saudi Arabia. Forming strategic partnerships with local businesses, hotels, and
airlines can help offer competitive packages. Investing in digital marketing and technology, such as a
user-friendly booking platform and data-driven personalization, will enhance customer experience
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and attract more clients. Customizing services, offering value-added experiences, and maintaining a
strong focus on customer satisfaction will help differentiate the company from competitors.
To manage costs and improve operational efficiency, ABC Company can explore automation,
strategic outsourcing, and cost optimization in its core processes. Leveraging its parent company’s
presence in Dubai for regional alliances and future expansion into other Saudi cities can further
boost growth. The company should also prioritize regulatory compliance and align with Saudi
Arabia’s Vision 2030 by incorporating sustainability initiatives into its business strategy.
e) Business restructurings
In FY2023, ABC Company was not involved in any business restructuring transactions.
g) Key competitors
The major competitors of ABC Company are XYZ Company.
h) Financial information
The below table summarizes the financial results reported by ABC Company for FY2023.
Table 3: Financial results of ABC Company for FY2023 valued in Saudi Riyal (“SAR”)
During FY2023, ABC Company has incurred an operating loss of SAR 1,100,000. Primary factors
contributing to losses for ABC Company are as follows:
These are the initial years for the company, they are arranging the setup in the Saudi Arabia.
That’s why they incurred loss in the FY 2023.
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4. Industry Analysis
i. Introduction
This section provides an analysis of the travel and tourism in which ABC Company operates,
discussing its trends, competition and outlook (including information pertaining to major
competitors, SWOT analysis, power of suppliers/buyers, availability of substitutes, size, demand
and supply trends, entry requirements, key international target markets, market share, and modes
of delivery, etc.), as these may directly and indirectly impact the Controlled Transactions.
Customer preferences: Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic and unique experiences, moving
away from traditional tourist attractions to more off-the-beaten-path destinations. This shift in
preferences has led to the rise of experiential travel, where immersive cultural experiences and
interactions with locals are highly valued.
Trends in the market: In the United States, there has been a noticeable trend towards sustainable
and eco-friendly travel practices. Travelers are becoming more conscious of their environmental
impact and are actively seeking out destinations and accommodations that prioritize sustainability.
This has led to the growth of eco-tourism initiatives and the popularity of destinations known for
their conservation efforts.
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b) Global travel industry trends and challenges
The key industry trends and challenges of the travel industry include:
Safety and Security Concerns: Safety and security issues, including terrorism, political instability,
and natural disasters, can significantly impact destination choices and traveler confidence.
Global Health Crises: Events like pandemics (e.g., COVID-19) can severely disrupt global travel.
Health-related concerns, travel restrictions, and safety measures have profound implications for the
tourism industry.
Climate Change: The tourism industry is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including
extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and disruptions to ecosystems. Shifts in weather patterns
can affect travel patterns and destination attractiveness.
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spending related to entertainment and leisure activities, and to transform the country into a major
global travel destination.
XYZ Company - Founded in 1980, rebranded to Seera in 2019, XYZ Company is one of the
largest travel and tourism companies in the Middle East. The company offers various
services, including travel booking, hospitality, car rentals, and corporate travel
management.8
XYZ Company - Established in 1976, XYZ Company is a leading hospitality company that
develops, owns, and manages a broad range of hotels and residential properties across
Saudi Arabia. The company is a major player in religious tourism, operating hotels in
Makkah and Madinah, and is expanding into leisure tourism.9
XYZ Company - Established in 2018 (as a subsidiary of the XYZ Company), XYZ Company is
developing the Red Sea Project, an ultra-luxury tourism destination along the western coast
of Saudi Arabia. The project focuses on sustainability and is expected to include luxury
resorts, marine experiences, and cultural attractions.10
XYZ Company - Founded in 2012, XYZ Company is an online travel agency under the XYZ
Company. It is a leading digital travel platform in the Middle East, offering booking services
for flights, hotels, and holiday packages.11
XYZ Company - Established in 2007, XYZ Company is a low-cost airline that primarily serves
domestic and regional destinations. The company plays a key role in making travel
affordable for Saudi citizens and residents, as well as tourists.
c) SWOT Analysis
The below table includes the SWOT analysis for KSA travel and tourism industry:
Strengths Weakness
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• Home to two very important • Restructuring of workforce and
holy mosques Saudization program impacts provision
• Numerous archaeological sites of qualified workforce in tourism
of historic and religious industry
significance • Underdeveloped entertainment
• Continued government efforts in industry
expansion and upgrade of current • Poor public transport infrastructure
infrastructure, facilities and • Religious seasonality impacts
services supply and demand in lodging
• Increased openness to foreign investors
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Opportunities Threats
• Vision 2030 to boost attractiveness • Continued travel bans due to Covid-
of Saudi to foreign investors 19 pandemic
• Multiple mega projects supporting • Strong competition from regional peers
growth of travel sector • Continued political uncertainty in the
• Deregulation of low-cost airlines region
provides entry opportunity of
new airlines
• Huge demand for domestic / regional
air travel favors set-up of regional hub
d) Industry characteristics
a. Buyer power
Buyer power refers to the influence that customers or travel agents (buyers) have over the
company.
ABC Company KSA sells accommodations to travel agents in Saudi Arabia through its centralized
portal. Since these agents are likely to have multiple accommodation providers to choose from
(including international platforms like Expedia or Booking.com), they have some degree of leverage.
However, ABC Company KSA can streamline the process for agents, offering convenience, real-time
availability, and potentially competitive prices, which may reduce buyer power somewhat.
b. Supplier power
Supplier power refers to the influence suppliers have over the company, especially in terms of
pricing and availability.
The main supplier of ABC Company KSA is its parent company, ABC Company, based in Dubai, from
which it purchases hotel accommodations. Given that this is a related-party transaction, the
supplier holds significant power, especially since it controls the availability, pricing, and terms of
accommodation supply.
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While this relationship creates dependency, the fact that the supplier is the parent company
suggests that strategic decisions are likely aligned, potentially reducing some risks of supply chain
volatility.
High, with the parent company (ABC Company) controlling hotel accommodations.
c. New entrants
The threat of new entrants pertains to how easy or difficult it is for new competitors to enter the
industry.
The travel and tourism industry, especially in the digital accommodation booking segment, has low
barriers to entry in terms of setting up an online platform. New entrants can quickly develop portals
to connect buyers and accommodation providers.
However, ABC Company KSA’s established relationship with travel agents and the backing of its
parent company (ABC Company) gives it an edge. Centralization and strong network of
accommodations may deter new players from easily capturing market share.
Moderate threat, though brand recognition and supplier relationships provide a buffer.
d. Degree of rivalry
This measures the intensity of competition among existing firms in the industry.
The travel and tourism industry in Saudi Arabia is becoming increasingly competitive as the
country’s Vision 2030 attracts more international and domestic players. Competing online
platforms and traditional accommodation providers create fierce competition.
ABC Company KSA has the advantage of a niche market focus, primarily targeting travel agents via
its proprietary portal. While there is rivalry, its business model of B2B operations may be less
exposed to direct competition compared to B2C platforms.
High due to competition in the KSA tourism market, but mitigated by ABC Company KSA’s specific
B2B focus.
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5. Summary of Controlled Transactions
i. Introduction
This section describes in detail the Controlled Transactions. The information provided in this
section contains the transaction volumes in order to allow an assessment of their economic
significance. Moreover, it also describes the TP policy applied for each category of the Controlled
Transactions.
Figure 3: Summary of related party transactions carried by ABC Company for FY2023
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ABC
ABC
Company
Company
Services flow
Payment flow
The table below provides information on amounts of intra-group payments/ receipts for each
Controlled Transaction.
Copy of all intercompany agreement concluded by ABC Company with its related party for
the above Controlled Transaction is provided in Appendix 3.
Hotel accommodations typically include a private room with a bed, bathroom facilities, and
daily housekeeping. Basic amenities often include free Wi-Fi, a television, air
conditioning/heating, and essential furniture like a desk and wardrobe.
ABC Company will provide the ABC Company’s agents with access to the "ABC Company s
"online reservations system for booking of hotels, and other Services that may be made
available from time to time.
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6. Functional Analysis
i. General
The functional analysis provides the factual and analytical foundation for establishing a TP
methodology consistent with the arm’s length standard. It stands for organizing facts about
the related companies (with respect to specific transactions) in terms of their functions,
risks, and assets in order to identify how these characteristics are divided between the
companies involved and between the transactions under review. A functional analysis is
essential to the development of TP policies for the following reasons:
• The functions, risks and assets associated with a related person’s operations usually
have a significant effect on its profitability; and
By providing a description of the functions, risks and assets and their location within a
corporate group, the functional analysis provides the first step in evaluating the relative
contribution to profit of various related companies and the appropriate pricing of
intercompany transactions.
Based on the scope of the intercompany transactions addressed in this report, the
functional analysis includes an overview of the business functions and risks undertaken by
ABC Company and its related parties in relation to the Controlled Transactions.
Vendor Relationship Management (VRM) refers to the process of building and maintaining
strong relationships with suppliers to ensure efficient procurement, quality service, and
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mutually beneficial terms. It involves communication, negotiation, and collaboration to
optimize the supply chain.
ABC Company likely maintains a close relationship with its parent company in Dubai (ABC
Company) for sourcing hotel accommodations. This involves regular communication to
ensure availability, pricing, and terms are aligned with their requirements.
Contract Negotiation and Terms Agreement is the process of discussing and finalizing the
terms of a contract between parties, including pricing, deliverables, and conditions. It aims
to ensure mutually beneficial and legally binding terms that align with both parties'
interests.
Company may be responsible for negotiating the terms of the hotel accommodation
agreements, even though it's dealing with a related party. These terms could include
pricing, volume commitments, cancellation policies, and room allocation agreements.
The contracts would also cover aspects like the duration of the agreement and any
special conditions during peak tourism seasons.
While this is an intercompany transaction, the transfer pricing rules require these
transactions to be conducted at an arm’s length. The functional analysis would need
to document how these prices are determined, ensuring they align with market rates.
Demand Forecasting and Planning is the process of predicting future customer demand
using historical data, trends, and market analysis to optimize inventory and resource
allocation. It helps businesses ensure they meet demand without overproducing or
understocking.
ABC Company would project the demand for hotel accommodations based on anticipated
tourism bookings and market trends. They would provide forecasts to the ABC Company to
secure a sufficient number of rooms. This is essential to ensure that the ABC Company KSA
can meet customer demands without overcommitting on hotel rooms, which could result in
unused inventory.
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Order Placement and Confirmations is the process of formally requesting goods or services
from a supplier and receiving acknowledgment of the order. It ensures that the order details,
such as quantity and delivery terms, are agreed upon and confirmed between both parties.
Once the demand is determined, ABC Company formally places orders for hotel
accommodations with the Dubai parent company. The entity ensures that the right quantity
of hotel rooms is booked for the required periods. This involves coordination between both
entities to confirm room availability, handle special customer requests, and guarantee a
smooth booking process for the end user.
Pricing Review and Payment Processes involve regularly assessing the cost of goods or
services to ensure competitiveness and accuracy, followed by managing the timely
settlement of payments. These steps ensure financial alignment and compliance with
agreed terms between parties.
ABC Company must periodically review the pricing of the hotel accommodations to ensure it
remains competitive, especially if tourism demand fluctuates due to seasonal factors. The
entity will also be responsible for arranging payments for these accommodations to the
parent company, ensuring that the intercompany pricing complies with transfer pricing
guidelines.
ABC Company may be involved in coordinating the logistics of ensuring that the hotel
bookings are seamlessly integrated into the larger tourism packages they sell. This might
include:
b. Collaborating with the parent company to solve any operational issues (e.g.,
overbooked rooms, late cancellations).
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c) Monitoring Performance and Reporting:
Monitoring Performance and Reporting involves tracking the effectiveness and quality of
services or products delivered, using key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess outcomes.
This process ensures that issues are identified promptly and communicated to relevant
stakeholders for continuous improvement.
a. After the accommodation services have been rendered, the ABC Company would
likely monitor the performance of ABC Company hotel accommodations in terms of
customer satisfaction and quality.
b. This involves managing feedback, resolving customer complaints, and reporting back
to the parent company about any issues that may arise, such as overbooking or poor
service quality.
a) Market Risk
Market risk refers to the risk that an entity may be unable to sell its products or services at
prices that will allow it to generate a profit or that it may be unable to sell its products or
services at all. Such risk may result from increased competition and relative pricing
pressures, declines in market demand or changes in market perceptions regarding the
entity’s products or services, and the inability to develop or penetrate in a market.
ABC Company may bear risks associated with fluctuating demand for tourism services in
KSA, and pricing pressures from competitors.
b) Inventory Risk
The risk relates to possibility of potential losses associated with carrying inventory of raw
materials (such as obsolescence, shrinkage, or market collapse).
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ABC Company does not hold inventory. So, inventory risk is not applicable to their
operations.
For ABC Company, risk arises from factors like seasonal demand fluctuations, increased
competition, and external events that can lead to underutilized resources and unrecovered
fixed costs.
ABC Company primarily acquires hotel accommodations from ABC Company, which
introduces foreign exchange risk.
e) Quality Risk
A company bears quality risk when there is any defect in the product/service produced, sold
or given. Further, warranty risk is the risk of repairing or re-constructing the constructed
projects for its failure to meet the contractual specifications/ standards.
In ABC Company, quality risk arises if the services provided, such as hotel accommodations
or tour experiences, fail to meet customer expectations or contractual standards. Warranty
risk may involve compensating or offering refunds for subpar services or addressing
customer complaints due to service deficiencies.
f) Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk that a customer, having entered into a sales contract and received
services, becomes unable or unwilling to pay the purchase amount to its supplier.
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In ABC Company, credit risk occurs when customers, after booking and receiving travel
services, fail to pay the agreed amount.
g) Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that a company or bank may be unable to meet short term financial
demands. This usually occurs due to the inability to convert a security or hard asset to cash
without a loss of capital and/ or income in the process.
Liquidity risk arises when ABC Company is unable to meet short-term financial obligations,
such as supplier payments or operational costs.
a) Tangible assets
The tangible assets used by ABC Company in conducting its activities consist solely of
laptops.
b) Intangible assets
ABC Company does not own or employee any significant intangible asset for its business
operation.
Table 6: Allocation of functions, risks and assets between the parties to the Controlled
Transactions in relation to ABC Company
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7. Economic Analysis
i. Introduction
This section discusses the selection of the most appropriate TP method,
based on Chapter 4 of the KSA TP bylaws, to analyze the Controlled
Transactions.
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b) Resale Price Method
The Resale Price Method (RPM) is a transfer pricing technique used to
establish the arm's length price for transactions involving the resale of goods
between related entities. This method is particularly effective when related
party buys goods from another related party and then resells them to an
unrelated party. The RPM begins with the resale price at which the product is
sold to the unrelated buyer. From this price, a gross margin is deducted,
reflecting the typical profit that a distributor or reseller would earn in a
comparable uncontrolled transaction.
In implementing the cost-plus method, companies first identify the cost base,
which encompasses all direct and indirect costs related to production,
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including raw materials, labor, and overhead expenses. A markup is then
added to this cost base to reflect a typical profit margin expected in arm's
length transactions, determined through comparable transactions or industry
standards. It’s essential for the cost-plus method to comply with local tax
regulations and international guidelines, such as those established by the
OECD. This method is most effective in scenarios where market prices are
not readily available, particularly in manufacturing and service sectors where
costs can be clearly defined.
The process consists of two main steps: first, determining the total profit
generated from the transaction, and then allocating that profit to each entity
based on their contributions. TPSM adheres to the arm's length principle,
aiming to reflect what independent parties would agree upon in similar
circumstances. It is particularly applicable in scenarios where there is
significant interrelation between controlled and other transactions or when
parties’ own rights to intangible assets that significantly impact profitability.
In cases where it is possible to determine an arm's-length remuneration for
specific functions performed, TPSM can be applied to the residual profit
remaining after those functions are compensated.
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margins, TNMM compares the net profit margin relative to a specific base—
such as costs, sales, or assets—achieved in a controlled transaction with that
of comparable uncontrolled transactions. This method measures the total
return derived from the controlled taxpayer’s narrowly defined business
activity, emphasizing the importance of capital invested and risks assumed
by
f) Other Method
There may be situations where a taxpayer considers the possibilities to use
any of the transfer pricing methods recognized under Article 6 of the Bylaws
and is unable to establish an appropriate degree of comparability based on
the facts and circumstances. In such situations, the taxpayer may consider
using any method, other than the above- mentioned methods to measure
the arm’s length result (e.g., use of independent valuation reports,
quotations, etc.).
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iii. Selection of most appropriate method
The following paragraphs explain in detail the method applied for Controlled
Transactions 1.
In the case of ABC Company, which takes orders from customers in KSA and
outsources services to its parent company for a fixed 1% margin, the cost-
plus method is particularly suitable. Since ABC Company primarily provides
services and has a clear cost structure associated with these outsourced
services, CPM allows for a straightforward calculation of transfer pricing. By
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simply adding the 1% markup to the costs incurred, the company can
maintain transparency and consistency in pricing, ensuring compliance with
the arm's length principle. This method is effective in this context as it
minimizes disputes over pricing and aligns with the straightforward nature of
their service-oriented business model.
iv. Conclusion
Based on the above, using “Cost Plus method” was analyzed to be most
appropriate method for ABC Company. Further, a corroborative analysis was
performed using Cost Plus as the most appropriate method to conclude that
the revenue earned by ABC Company after accounting for all Transaction is
at arm’s length from a KSA TP perspective.
Article 63(c) of the KSA Income Tax Law allows the Zakat, Tax and Customs
Authority (“ZATCA”) to reallocate revenues and expenses associated with
transactions among related persons, as well as in the attribution of income
and expenses to branches, such that the returns reflect those that would
have resulted if the parties were independent and unrelated. This provision
in the primary tax legislation provides a statutory authority to the ZATCA to
review and adjust transfer prices that it determines are not in accordance
with the arm’s-length standard.
On February 2019, ZATCA issued the TP Bylaws that are applicable to all
persons considered taxpayers pursuant to the KSA Income Tax Law (including
mixed-ownership entities). Further, ZATCA released the Transfer Pricing
Guidelines (“TP Guidelines”) (the latest edition being the third edition in
November 2022) to provide detailed guidance and minimize any ambiguities
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for the taxpayers on the intended implementation of TP Bylaws. The TP
Bylaws and Guidelines are broadly aligned with the international standards,
including establishing the arm’s length principle and documentation
standards as set out in the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines.
The TP bylaws require KSA entities and branches of foreign companies which
are subject to corporate Income Tax Law in KSA to maintain a transfer pricing
master file and local file, when their aggregate annual arm’s length value of
the controlled transactions exceeds SAR 6 million (“m”) in a given fiscal year.
For entities not meeting the threshold, it would be adequate to maintain
documentation in any format, covering general aspects covered in master
file and local file, particularly including the functional and economic analysis.
The master file and local file are required to be submitted within 30 days
from the date of request from ZATCA. However, during 2019 only, taxpayers
will be granted an extension of 60 days to provide the master file and local
file.
3.2b in the year immediately preceding the reporting year, will be subject to
CBC reporting requirements in KSA, and will be required to notify the ZATCA
regarding the submission of the CBC report within 120 days of the end of the
reporting year and file the CBC report within twelve months after the fiscal
year end of the MNE Group.
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The arm’s length principle is defined in the TP Bylaws as follows:
The selection of transfer pricing method as per the TP Bylaws is in line with
OECD Guidance and prescribed methods (comparable uncontrolled price,
resale price, cost plus, transactional net margin and transactional profit
split). When, none of these methods provide a reliable measure of the arm’s-
length result, the bylaws provide that a taxable person may use other
transfer pricing methods. In addition, it is also provided that one method will
be sufficient as opposed to multiple methods being adopted. This is a helpful
concession and meets with the “purist transfer pricing” view rather than
looking at multiple methods to manage overall risk. The ZATCA may from
time to time set forth any relevant information regarding the selection of an
appropriate Transfer Pricing method in the Guidelines.
Though the TP Bylaws does not prescribe any penalties specific to transfer
pricing, penalties prescribed under the general provisions of KSA tax law will
be applied.
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Appendix 2: OECD TP Guidelines
1.1 Arm’s Length Principle
The arm’s length principle is the international transfer pricing standard that
the OECD member countries have agreed which should be used for tax
purposes by multinational enterprises and tax administrations. On January
2022, the OECD released the 2022 edition of the OECD TP Guidelines. This
new version of the OECD TP Guidelines consolidates the agreed changes to
section based on various Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (“BEPS”)
recommendations. As a result, the 2022 edition includes new guidance on
the transactional profit split method, application of the approach in hard to
value intangible transactions and guidance on financial transactions, etc.
Reference is made to Article 9 of the OECD Model Tax Convention on Income
and on Capital, in regards of the arm’s length principle, which states that:
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► Traditional transaction methods, including Comparable Uncontrolled
Price Method (“CUP method”), Resale Price Method (“RPM”) and Cost-Plus
Method (“CP method”)
The OECD TP Guidelines state that the objective is to select the method that
provides “the best estimation of an arm’s length price.”15 Notwithstanding
this overall objective, the
Thus, it is acknowledged that there are situations in which the data available
is inadequate for the CUP method to be applied reliably. In such cases, it is
appropriate to apply another method; where, as outlined in the OECD TP
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Guidelines, one of the other traditional transaction methods is preferable to a
transactional profit method.
The CUP method compares the price charged for property or services
transferred in a controlled transaction to the price charged for property or
services transferred in a comparable uncontrolled transaction in comparable
circumstances.18 Comparability requires that a) none of the differences (if
any) between the transactions being compared or between the enterprises
undertaking those transactions could materially affect the price in the open
market; or, b) reasonably accurate adjustments can be made to eliminate
the material effects of such differences between the controlled and
uncontrolled transactions19. The extent and reliability of the necessary
quantitative adjustments will affect the relative reliability of the analysis
under the CUP method.20 As such, the reliability of the method is therefore
dependent on establishing comparability of the transactions.
The Chapter II of the 2022 OECD TP Guidelines also includes new guidance
especially applicable to commodity transactions. The new guidance states
that, the CUP method would generally be an appropriate transfer pricing
method for establishing the arm’s
23 The “quoted price” refers to the price of the commodity in the relevant
period obtained in an international or
Under the RPM, an arm’s length price for a sale from A to B is determined by
subtracting the resale price margin from the price at which B resells to a
third party. In essence, the resale price margin compensates a reseller of
goods for costs incurred and provides an appropriate profit for functions
performed, tangible and intangible assets employed, and risks borne by the
reseller.
“The resale price margin of the reseller in the controlled transaction may be
determined by reference to the resale price margin that the same reseller
earns on items purchased and sold in comparable uncontrolled transactions
(“internal comparable”). Also, the resale price margin earned by an
independent enterprise in comparable uncontrolled transactions may serve
as a guide (“external comparable”)”. Where the reseller is carrying on a
general brokerage business, the resale price margin may be related to a
brokerage fee, which is usually calculated as a percentage of the sales price
of the product sold, taking into account whether the broker is acting as an
agent or a principal.26
The RPM is generally applicable for distribution and sales transactions and is
generally not applicable for the transfer of intangible assets.
Comparability under the RPM requires that there are no differences that
would materially affect the resale price margin in the open market or that
reasonably accurate adjustments can be made to account for such
differences. The extent and reliability of adjustments will
affect the relative reliability of the RPM analysis. Fewer adjustments are
needed to account for product differences than under the CUP method, but
other comparability attributes (e.g., functions) generally are given more
weight. The RPM is not considered to be as reliable if the reseller adds
substantially to the value of the product (through functions or intangibles) or
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incorporates the product into another product, because it is difficult to
ensure comparability in such circumstances.
tr2a6 OnEsCaDcTtiPoGnuifdoerlinpers
oJapnuearrtyy2t0r2a2,npsafreagrrraepdh 2o.2r8services provided to an
associated purchaser. The underlying rationale is that a cost-plus mark-up
provides an appropriate profit for the functions performed, assets employed,
and risks borne by the taxpayer. This method is most useful where semi-
finished goods are sold between associated parties, where associated parties
have concluded joint facility agreements or long-term buy-and-supply
arrangements, or where the controlled transaction is the provision of
services.27
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analysis. Like the RPM, fewer adjustments are needed under the CP method
to account for product differences than is the case for the CUP method, but
other comparability attributes (e.g., functions) generally are given more
weight. Thus, it is particularly important to consider differences in the level
and types of expenses – operating expenses and non-operating expenses
including financing expenditures – associated with functions performed and
risks assumed by the parties or transactions being compared.29
The OECD TP Guidelines allow the use of “other methods” when traditional
transaction methods cannot be reliably applied. Other methods outlined in
the OECD TP Guidelines include the PSM and the TNMM, which are
collectively described as the transactional profit methods.
e2n9 tOiEtiCeDsT)P.
GIunidelsineecsoJannduaryc2a0t2e2g,oparrya,gratphhe2.5r1esidual profit or
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loss is generated based on contributions which may be unique and valuable,
and/or are attributable to a high level of integration or the shared
assumption of economically significant risks. Stage two focuses on intangible
property contributed, relative bargaining positions, and reference to external
market data.
The TNMM should consider only the profits of the controlled entity that are
attributable to the transactions under review. The application of the TNMM on
a company-wide basis is inappropriate if the company engages in a variety of
different controlled transactions that cannot be compared on an aggregate
basis with those of an uncontrolled comparable company.
Intra-group services may vary considerably among MNE groups, and thus,
each case is dependent upon its own facts and circumstances and the
arrangements within the group.31 However, there are two main issues in the
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analysis of transfer pricing for intragroup services that are addressed in the
OECD TP Guidelines. The first issue is whether services have, in fact, been
provided. The second issue is determining the appropriate charge for such
services for tax purposes in accordance with the arm’s length principle.
The fact that a payment was made to an associated enterprise for purported
services are not prima facie evidence that such services have been rendered.
At the same time, the absence of payments or contractual agreements does
not automatically lead to the conclusion that no intra-group services have
been rendered.33 The OECD TP Guidelines state that determining whether
an intra-group service has been rendered depends on whether the activity in
question provides a group member with economic or commercial value to
enhance its commercial position. This, in turn, can be determined by
considering
w3h2
eOtEhCDerTPanGuiindedlienepseJnanduearnyt2e02n2t,epraprargirsaephin7.
5comparable circumstance would have been willing
performed the activity in-house for itself. 34 If the activity is not one for
which the independent enterprise would have been willing to pay or perform
for itself, the activity ordinarily should not be considered as an intra-group
service under the arm’s length principle. 35 The facts and circumstances of
each situation will largely determine the result. However, the OECD TP
Guidelines provide an analytical framework with reference to two
circumstances. It then proceeds to address particular circumstances and
suggests examples where intra-group services do and do not exist.
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The first circumstance is where the intra-group services are performed by
one member of an MNE group to meet an identified need of one or more
specific group members. In this case, an intra-group service would ordinarily
be found to exist if an independent enterprise in comparable circumstances
would have satisfied the identified need either by performing the activity in-
house or by having the activity performed by a third party36. As such, in
such a case where intra-group service is found to exist, it is essential that
reliable documentation is provided to tax administrations to verify that costs
have been incurred by the service provider.37
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36 OECD TP Guidelines January 2022, paragraph 7.8
performing for itself, or that is being performed for such other group member
by a third party are not intra-group services unless they fall under one of two
exceptions. First, where the duplication of services is only temporary.41
Second, where the duplication is undertaken to reduce the risk of a wrong
business decision.42 The nature of any possible duplication of services and
the reason the company appears to be duplicating the costs need to be
identified in detail. Examination of information provided by taxpayer may
determine the exact nature of the intra-group services (different, additional,
or complementary to the activities performed in-house).43
The form that the services would generally take if the transactions were
between independent parties may also be relevant in considering whether
charges for the services are appropriate. If the charge is built into the
transaction, a further service fee is not appropriate.47 A related issue is
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whether a fee should be charged for services provided on an “on call” or
“standby” (as incurred by an independent enterprise in comparable
circumstances) basis. The OECD TP Guidelines determine reasonable conduct
by reference to the conduct of independent parties transacting with each
other.48 The OECD TP Guidelines also refer to three factors in determining
the reasonableness of a standby charge. These factors include whether the
potential need for the service was remote, or whether the advantage of
having services on-call was negligible, or whether the on-call services could
be obtained promptly and readily from other sources without the need for
stand-by arrangements. In the application of these principles, the OECD TP
Guidelines suggest looking at the benefits conferred on the group company
over a period of several years, rather than just in the year of the charge,
before determining that an intra-group service is being provided.49
administration and protection of intangible property etc. for all or part of the
group.
The fact that a payment was made to an associated enterprise for purported
services can be useful in determining whether services were in fact provided.
But the mere description of a payment as, for example, “management fees”
should not be expected to be treated as prima facie evidence that such
services have been rendered. At the same time, the absence of payments or
contractual agreements does not automatically lead to the conclusion that
no intra-group services have been rendered.50
In order to satisfy the arm’s length principle, the allocation method must lead
to a result that is consistent with what comparable independent enterprises
would have been prepared to accept.55 To achieve this, the transaction
should be considered from the perspectives of the service provider and the
service recipient. In this respect, the relevant considerations include the
value of the service to the recipient, and how much a comparable
independent enterprise would pay for the service in comparable
circumstances, as well as the costs to the service provider.56 In addition, a
particular allocation basis may be acceptable or unacceptable depending on
the nature and usage of the service.57
The OECD TP Guidelines suggest the use of a functional analysis of the group
members to establish a relationship between the provided service and the
members’ activities and performance. Consideration should also be given to
the long-term effect of the service, and whether the costs will ever actually
produce benefits.59 Taxpayers should be able to demonstrate the
reasonableness of their charges to associated enterprises in light of these
issues if they are relevant under their particular circumstances.60
length price might be in some cases. In such cases, charging all relevant
costs rather than an arm’s length price may provide a satisfactory result for
MNEs and tax administrations.
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The OECD TP Guidelines provides a simplified approach for determining
arm's length charges for low value adding intra-group services for taxpayers,
but should be applied on a consistent, group-wide basis in all countries. The
approach consists of the following steps:
Step 2: Identify and remove from the cost pool costs relating to services
performed solely on behalf of one other group company.
The approach aims to guarantee payer countries that the system through
which the costs are allocated leads to an equal treatment for all associated
enterprises that are operating in similar circumstances. Moreover, the
approach aims to guarantee that no overpricing takes place due to general
agreement on the categories of costs included in the cost base and general
agreement on the moderate mark-up of 5% that should be charged. Finally,
the transparency of the approach makes clear to payer countries whether
intermediary companies, that may have no or low functionality and may aim
to inflate the intra-group service charges, have been interposed.
Aggregation of transactions
On 5 October 2015, the OECD released final reports on all 15 focus areas in
its Action Plan on BEPS. The OECD described the final BEPS packages as
containing recommendations that fall in several different categories as
mentioned below:
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Appendix 3: Intercompany agreements
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Appendix 4: Annual Financial Statement of
ABC Company
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