Value Added Tax (VAT) Workshop (Mandatory Training)

INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS OF KENYA
(Established under the Accountants Act, Laws of Kenya)

Value Added Tax (VAT) Workshop (Mandatory Training)
Theme: Ensuring VAT Compliance
Date: 1st – 2nd July 2025
Time: 9.00am-3.30pm
Delivery Mode: Virtual
(This is one of the mandatory trainings for Practicing Certificate consideration

Overview

Have you ever wondered how VAT impacts everything from your morning coffee to global business transactions? What if you could unlock the secrets behind this ubiquitous tax system and become a VAT virtuoso? This Workshop isn’t just about numbers and tax codes; it’s a journey into the heart of commerce and economics.

As we dive into the realms of VAT, you’ll learn to navigate the intricate maze of regulations, understand the vital role of VAT in different economies, and even decode the mysteries of international VAT compliance. Think of yourself as an economic explorer, charting new territories in the world of finance and taxation.

As we all know in today’s globalized and dynamic business environment, Value Added Tax (VAT) has become one of the most critical and complex tax regimes that businesses must navigate. VAT is essential not only for generating government revenue but also as a fundamental component of business strategy, influencing the way companies operate, plan, and report their financials. With tax laws constantly evolving, accounting and tax professionals must stay informed about regulatory changes to ensure compliance, optimize tax liabilities, and manage VAT risks effectively.

VAT plays a crucial role in Kenya’s economy, where the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has significantly strengthened its enforcement mechanisms. Over the past few years, Kenya has seen substantial changes in its VAT regulations, including the introduction of VAT on digital services and the enforcement of e-filing and e-invoicing systems, which are transforming the tax administration landscape. These changes not only challenge businesses but also create opportunities for those who can strategically plan their VAT obligations. As such, it is increasingly important for accountants, tax advisors, auditors, and other financial professionals to stay up to date with these changes and understand their implications on business operations.

This workshop is designed to equip delegates from across various sectors—including telecommunications, banking, consulting, and more—with the knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate the complexities of VAT. Whether you’re working with large organizations or Growing Companies, this session will provide key insights into VAT laws and offer practical solutions to mitigate risks, enhance compliance, and optimize tax strategies in your day-to-day operations. These among others form part of the areas of discussion during the session.

Key Areas to be Covered
1. Introduction to VAT and Its Global Impact
o Understanding the VAT framework and its importance in business operations worldwide.
o Overview of VAT systems in different regions and how they compare to the Kenyan system.
2. VAT in Kenya: Legal Framework and Compliance Requirements
o Detailed analysis of Kenya’s VAT Act and the role of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) in enforcing VAT compliance.
o Recent amendments, including VAT on digital services, new exemptions, and updates to VAT rates.
o Practical considerations in preparing and filing VAT returns, including e-filing and e-invoicing systems.
3. VAT Policy and Economic Implications
o The role of VAT in Kenya’s economic development and fiscal policy.
o Exploring how VAT reforms affect businesses and government revenue generation.

4. Strategic Tax Planning with VAT
o Techniques for optimizing VAT payments and ensuring compliance in different business models.
o Managing VAT on imports, exports, and transactions with related parties.
o How VAT planning can enhance cash flow and reduce tax liabilities.
5. VAT Audits and Dispute Resolution
o What to expect during a VAT audit by KRA and best practices to avoid penalties.
o Procedures for handling disputes and resolving issues with the KRA.
o Case studies of VAT audits and common mistakes businesses make.
6. Impact of VAT on Financial Reporting
o How VAT affects financial statements and tax filings for large corporations.
o The role of accountants in preparing VAT-compliant financial reports for different sectors.
7. Sector-Specific VAT Issues
o Special VAT considerations for industries such as telecommunication, banking, and professional services.
o Addressing sector-specific VAT challenges and opportunities for tax efficiency.
8. The Role of Technology in VAT Compliance
o Embracing digital tools like e-invoicing, e-filing, and automated VAT solutions to enhance compliance and efficiency.
o Exploring KRA’s digital tax administration system and its implications for business operations.
9. Cross-Border Transactions and VAT
o Handling VAT on cross-border transactions, including imports and exports.
o Understanding VAT treatment in international trade agreements and tax treaties.
10. VAT Refunds and Credits
o Procedures for claiming VAT refunds and managing input VAT credits.
o Common errors in VAT refund claims and how to avoid them.

Target Audience

ICPAK Members ,Accountants ,Tax practitioners ,Members of Boards in public and private corporations, Chief Finance Officers, Finance Directors and Managers, Private and Public Audit Practitioners, Public Sector Accountants, Transaction Advisors, Engagement Partners and Key Audit staff, Banking, Financial services sector Accountants, Internal Auditors, Tax Practitioners, Professionals working in Government and private sectors, Accountants in Academia, current and potential members of ICPAK, members of other professional associations

Continuous Professional Development Units (CPD Units):

Members of ICPAK and reciprocating professional bodies will be awarded 10 CPD Units upon successfully attending the session.

Cost:

Charges for the training will be Kes 10,000/= which will cover workshop fees, materials, and e-certificates of attendance.

Online Booking:

We call on Seminar participants to note that booking for is available only online at www.icpak.com/events and will close two hours before the training session.  Delegates are reminded to note that online booking for training sessions is mandatory.   This is available either online at www.icpak.com/events  or on the ICPAK Live – A smart phone-based application that is available from google store.

National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) Reimbursement:

The Institute is registered as a trainer with National Industrial Training Authority. The Institute’s registration number is DIT/TRN/47. Participants who are registered levy contributors should apply to NITA for reimbursement of their fees. Please note that this is applicable for Kenyan citizens only and subject to NITA regulations. Remember that to qualify you should apply to NITA for approval prior to the date of the conference. Further details can be obtained from their website (www.nita.go.ke).

Further requests can be channeled to us via telephone calls on +254 719 074 100,  or via email  to marketing@icpak.com.

We encourage members to regularly visit our website https://www.icpak.com for updates.