Policy & Legal Updates

China Tightens Offshore Trust and Overseas Income Tax Rules for Resident Individuals

China has implemented strict individual income tax rules for offshore trusts, imposing a 20 percent tax rate across asset funding, trust income, and distributions. The Ministry of Finance and State Taxation Administration established a 90-day transitional compliance window closing on October 22, 2026, allowing taxpayers to settle historical trust liabilities without late surcharges. Cross-border tax enforcement is increasingly supported by automated data exchange under the Common Reporting Standard.

Policy & Legal Updates

Dubai KHDA Adds 17,000 School Seats and Global Universities for 2026-27

Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced the opening of 26 new private educational institutions for the 2026-27 academic year under its Education 33 Strategy. The expansion adds nearly 17,000 school seats and features international university launches, including Peking University HSBC Business School. The authority is also prioritising AI literacy, future workforce skills, and the addition of 18,000 affordable school places over the next two years.

Industry News

Amazon and Ghitha Holding Partner on UAE Farm-to-Door Fresh Produce Initiative

Amazon and Ghitha Holding PJSC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore a demand-led seasonal fresh produce initiative in the UAE. The collaboration aims to deliver locally grown produce via Amazon Now using consumer demand insights to guide crop selection. The companies also plan to establish a distribution centre and packhouse at Dubai's Food Tech Valley.

China–UAE News

UAE Joins Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to Study Railway Link to Pakistani Ports

The UAE, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan have signed a memorandum of understanding to launch a feasibility study for the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan (CASA) railway corridor. The route aims to connect Central Asia to Pakistani seaports on the Indian Ocean and complement the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway currently under construction. A joint working group may be formed to assess infrastructure needs, economic viability, and financing options.