DUBAI — In light of recent developments to the Middle East’s tax landscape, PwC’s Academy has launched the region’s first Transfer Pricing Diploma.

Awarded by the Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT), the comprehensive programme is designed for tax professionals to navigate transfer pricing — fast becoming one of the most critical issues faced by international businesses in the region.

The globally-recognized qualification will be delivered through online classes, in partnership with Tolley — the leading provider worldwide of practical tax training. Using live online classes and examination software, participants will complete 36 hours of training over the six-week course.

Beginning July 11 and delivered by experienced tax professionals, the diploma will provide in-depth knowledge of the OECD Transfer Pricing guidelines, its practical application in the region and its impact on businesses.

The qualification is of particular relevance for executive management, for finance, tax, legal and procurement personnel of multinational enterprises, and for economists, tax and transfer pricing in-house managers and advisers.

The digital course is split into manageable sections taught in a modular format, enabling participants to choose a study programme most effective for their own pace of learning.

Transfer pricing relates to all aspects of inter-company pricing arrangements between members of a multinational group, including transfers of tangible goods, services, intellectual property and loans, as well as other financial transactions.

With globalization and cross border intra-group dealings becoming the norm, companies must comply with the tax regulations in the jurisdictions in which they operate.

Amanda Line, partner, PwC’s Academy said: “As the Middle East undergoes rapid changes to tax policies, it is an important time to address the issue of transfer pricing and ensure teams in the region have the knowledge to accommodate and implement this.

“This diploma will play an important role in the understanding of transfer pricing and its impact on business in the Middle East.” — SG