Saudi Finance Minister Opens Third Zakat, Tax, and Customs Conference
Saudi Arabia Hosts International Tax System”>Zakat, Tax, and Customs Conference, Emphasizing Digital Transformation and Global Cooperation
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia hosted the third edition of the Zakat, Taxes and Customs Conference, bringing together global leaders and experts to discuss the future of economic sustainability and security. The conference, held in Riyadh from December 4-5, 2024, highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to digital transformation and international collaboration in the fields of zakat, tax, and customs.
His Highness Mohammed bin abdullah Al-Zadan,Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Zakat,Taxes and Customs authority,inaugurated the conference,emphasizing the crucial role these authorities play in achieving Saudi Vision 2030. He highlighted the Authority’s important strides in digital transformation, achieving a remarkable 99.35% score in the United Nations Goverment Index for its digital services.
“We are the future for a sustainable economy and improved security,” declared Al-Zadan, underscoring the conference’s theme of forging a path towards a more integrated and secure global economic landscape.
The conference featured a high-level dialog session titled “Recovery and Growth of the Economy in the Light of Global Challenges,” where Al-Zadan engaged with finance ministers from Bahrain, Indonesia, and India. The discussion focused on strategies for economic growth,investment opportunities,and addressing the challenges posed by the digital economy.
Al-Zadan emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to increasing investment in promising sectors to drive economic growth and create jobs. He also highlighted the collaborative efforts of the G20 and the Association for Economic Cooperation and Advancement to address the complexities of tax collection in the digital age.
On the sidelines of the conference, al-Zadan signed several international agreements and memoranda of understanding with Kuwait, Croatia, and Kosovo, aimed at preventing double taxation, combating tax evasion, and fostering cooperation in tax governance and customs matters.
The conference also featured a keynote speech by Deputy Minister of Finance, Abdul Mohsen Bin Saad Al-Khalaf, who emphasized the vital role of zakat in strengthening social solidarity. He highlighted the Kingdom’s dedication to directing zakat revenues towards social programs, including social security benefits, to build a more balanced and just society.
The Zakat, Tax and Customs Conference served as a platform for experts, policymakers, and leaders to exchange knowledge, explore innovative solutions, and chart a course towards a future characterized by economic sustainability and enhanced security.
Saudi Arabia Leads in Digital Transformation: Exclusive Interview with Minister Al-Zadan
NewsDirect3.com sat down with His Highness Mohammed bin abdullah Al-Zadan, Minister of finance and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Zakat, Taxes, and Customs Authority of Saudi Arabia, following the prosperous conclusion of the third International Zakat, Tax, and Customs Conference in Riyadh.
NewsDirect3.com: Your Excellency, the conference emphasized the crucial role of digital transformation. What strides has saudi Arabia made in this area?
minister Al-Zadan: We are proud to be leading the way in digital transformation within the zakat, tax and customs sector.We have actively implemented digital solutions, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency.this commitment has been recognized internationally, with the United Nations Government Index awarding us a remarkable 99.35% score for our digital services. this is a testament to our dedication to providing citizens and businesses with seamless and reliable services.
NewsDirect3.com: The conference discussed achieving enduring economic growth amidst global challenges. what role dose Saudi arabia envision playing in this landscape?
Minister Al-Zadan: We believe in a collaborative approach to building a sustainable and secure global economy. We are committed to increasing investment in promising sectors, driving job creation, and fostering innovation. We are also actively engaged in international efforts like the G20 and the Association for Economic Cooperation and Advancement to tackle the complexities of taxation in the digital age.Saudi Arabia sees itself as a partner in global economic progress.
NewsDirect3.com: International cooperation was a key theme. What agreements were reached during the conference?
Minister Al-Zadan: Recognizing the importance of global cooperation, we signed several significant agreements and memoranda of understanding with Kuwait, Croatia, and Kosovo. These agreements focus on preventing double taxation, combating tax evasion, and strengthening cooperation in tax governance and customs matters. We believe that by working together, we can create a fairer and more transparent global economic system.