Mobile content to raise additional tax revenues in Belarus in 2017

As of January 1^st, 2017, the Ministry of Taxes and Duties plans to charge VAT on mobile applications and games. Payments to Internet companies providing paid content will be regarded as providing services in Belarus. Most foreign companies sell their content through foreign payment systems. As a result, consumers will have to pay more for their mobile content. Some smart phone users may open bank accounts in foreign banks in order to avoid payments from Belarus. In addition, foreign companies, which refuse to cooperate with the Belarusian tax authorities, may have problems with access to their services from Belarus. As the Belarusian government is urgently looking for additional budget revenues, it may introduce taxes on any payments by Belarusian resident to foreign companies and private persons.