NIGERIA AND NETHERLANDS BEGIN DOUBLE TAX TREATY RENEWAL TALKS

In a historic move aligned with Nigeria’s sweeping tax reforms, the Netherlands has become the first country to initiate the renegotiation of its Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with Nigeria. Talks officially opened at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) headquarters in Abuja on July 8.
The Dutch delegation, led by Ambassador Bengt van Loosdrecht, was received by FIRS Chairman Dr. Zacch Adedeji, who described the talks as pivotal in aligning with President Tinubu’s fiscal transformation agenda.
Nigeria’s new legal tax regime—signed into law on June 26—includes landmark legislations such as the Nigeria Tax Act, Tax Administration Act, and Revenue Service Establishment Act, all scheduled for operationalisation from January 2026.
Dr. Adedeji stressed the urgency of updating outdated treaties in line with domestic economic shifts and global efforts against Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS). Ambassador van Loosdrecht echoed the sentiment, urging for mutual goodwill in finding common ground.
The talks signal the beginning of a broader diplomatic effort to reform Nigeria’s international tax engagements, with more treaty negotiations expected over the coming months.