The Zakat, Tax, and Customs (ZTC) Conference is an international event organized by the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA). The inaugural edition took place in Riyadh City in 2023 under the theme “An Integrated Digital System for Sustainable Economy and Improved Security.”
The conference brought together commissioners and heads of international tax authorities, regional leaders, and industry experts to explore global and local developments in zakat, tax, and customs administration. The program was designed to support Saudi Vision 2030 by addressing economic diversification, financial sustainability, and enhanced national security through digital transformation.
Objectives
The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Conference aimed to:
- Highlight major developments in zakat, tax, and customs sectors globally and locally.
- Foster dialogue between taxpayers, importers, exporters, and regulators.
- Provide a platform for researchers, specialists, and industry experts to share insights.
- Encourage the adoption of digital solutions for more efficient administration.
By targeting businesses and individuals in the field, the conference reinforced ZATCA’s role in modernizing zakat, tax, and customs services to ensure compliance, security, and sustainability.
Pillars
The ZTC Conference was built on three key pillars:
- Technology – advancing digitization and innovative platforms such as e-invoicing and the Fasah platform.
- Prosperity – supporting business growth through transparency, efficiency, and taxpayer awareness.
- Security – ensuring trade safety, customs compliance, and border control to protect national interests.
These pillars align with Vision 2030 goals to build an integrated digital ecosystem that sustains economic growth and strengthens security.
Activities and Sessions
The program included plenary sessions, research presentations, and specialized discussions over two days.
Day One Sessions:
- An Investment-Friendly Logistics Environment: Transparency and Efficiency
- Prosperity Through a Safe and Efficient Transport System
- Customs Role Between Security and Trade Facilitation
- Zakat as a Form of Social Solidarity and its Contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Taxpayer Awareness: An Essential Tool for Voluntary Compliance
- Integration of Customs and Tax Operations: Benefits and Challenges
Day Two Sessions:
- Trends and Challenges in Transfer Pricing
- Authorized Economic Operator as a Supply Chain Tool
- Tax Incentives: The End or the Beginning
Additionally, research papers were presented on E-Invoicing and the Clearance Within Two Hours Initiative.
Workshops
The ZTC Conference featured interactive workshops, covering topics such as:
- Clearance Within Two Hours
- E-Invoicing Implementation
- Duty-Free Markets Development
Other workshops addressed VAT refund mechanisms, SME zakat regulations, cross-border e-commerce, and the treatment of taxpayers’ debts. Platforms such as Saber and Fasah were highlighted as key tools for improving compliance and efficiency.
Significance
The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Conference serves as a global platform for shaping the future of fiscal governance in Saudi Arabia. It emphasizes:
- Enhancing digital services in tax and customs.
- Ensuring economic sustainability through efficient revenue systems.
- Strengthening security and compliance in international trade.
- Aligning the zakat and tax system with international best practices.
By positioning Saudi Arabia at the center of international dialogue, the conference reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to building a sustainable, transparent, and secure economic environment.
