Morocco’s tax authorities have launched an investigation into a network of “phantom companies” suspected of exploiting tax exemptions and engaging in fraudulent activities, according to Hespress Ar sources.
The probe, initiated following intelligence gathered from the Directorate General of Taxes’ (DGT) studies and statistics department and the General Directorate of Customs and Indirect Taxes, has uncovered a pattern of companies misusing tax incentives.
Investigators have found that these companies have been falsely claiming exemptions on value-added tax (VAT) for imported goods and equipment intended for investment.
Upon closer examination of these claims, it became clear that many of the companies involved were unable to provide the necessary documentation to substantiate their requests.
Some of these entities were diverting equipment acquired under tax exemptions to the black market to be sold for profit.
A thorough audit of tax declarations has exposed gaps in the guarantees and business plans submitted by these companies to justify their eligibility for tax breaks.
This latest crackdown is part of the DGT’s ongoing efforts to combat tax fraud, particularly involving dormant companies and shell corporations. Over the past three years, the authorities have reduced the number of such entities.
To enhance their surveillance capabilities, tax inspectors have implemented electronic data exchange with customs authorities, the foreign exchange office, and other institutions, enabling them to monitor the activities of these companies and identify their business partners.
The tax investigation overlaps with an inquiry conducted by customs authorities into the misuse of the temporary admission system. Both agencies have shared information on a number of suspicious cases involving importers who have exploited this incentive to make significant profits.
These importers have been accused of importing goods under the temporary admission regime and then reselling them on the domestic market without exporting them, thereby avoiding customs duties.
The DGT has renewed its call for inactive companies to regularize their tax status before the end of the year. By encouraging these companies to come forward, the authorities aim to expand the tax base and generate additional revenue.
Despite offering incentives over the past two years, the response from these companies has been limited.
The post Tax authorities crack down on phantom companies and fraudulent claims appeared first on HESPRESS English – Morocco News.
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