INCOME TAX AMENDMENT 2018: Property Companies feel the heat
The 2018 amendment of the income tax regime which took effect from December last year has caused a stir in the property industry with some companies crying foul and proposing a re-look into the new dispensation.
PrimeTime Properties, one of the leading property companies in Botswana, also operating in Zambia reported this week that the Income Tax amendment 2018 was hurting its investor take home as a company listed on Botswana Stock Exchange. The company further went on to highlight that the current income tax at play paints a blur picture on their business future outlooks. “We cannot talk about the Group’s future prospects without highlighting the effect on our investors of the recently introduced Income Tax Amendment Act 2018.
As advised in the recent interest payment announcement made in February 2019, this Act limits the deduction of net interest expense in calculating taxable income and will result in the Company suffering income tax on its profits prior to their distribution as debenture interest,” writes PrimeTime executives in its interim financial results released on Wednesday. The company shared that the Act which was passed in December 2018 retrospectively affects the Group current financial period commencing 1 September 2018 as no transitional provisions for its implementation have been imparted.
New African Properties another BSE listed group owning assets such as Riverwalk mall shared the same sentiment when reporting for their half year financial performance ended January 2019. The company highlighted that following Income Tax Amendment Act promulgated in late December 2018, it has emerged that the extent to which variable rate Loan Stock (VRLS) companies are able to treat debenture interest declared to unit holders as a deduction in determining taxable income will be limited
New African Property further revealed that it has initiated engagement with regulators to investigate avenues for reinstating the VRLS exemption, which retain the principle of VRLS companies being a conduit for net rentals earned in line with globally accepted norms. “We are seeking to reverse or delay the impact of this amendment on the current financial year, especially when considering that it was promulgated five month into the financial period” said NAP in its report released last month.
The BSE listed retail group says they have successfully assessed and qualified the maximum possible impact for the first half to be a loss of P10.2 million from its distributable dividend in the event that no favorable solution is reached but, given the ongoing engagements referred to above, no provision has been made in these results for this tax charge. “ Should we be unsuccessful in obtaining any revision to the amendment as currently enacted, the tax charge will be recognized in the year results” said NAP.
NAP says its anticipation is that it will be able to fund payment of the initial tax liability for the current financial year from available cash without impacting the current year’s total distributions. However, such an approach will not be sustained in future periods and the amendment will thus impact on the quantum of the future distributions if it remains in force as promulgated.
This week Prime Time Properties shared that its board of directors was currently assessing what options are available to the Group in order to protect the unitholders interests in this regard, as well as working actively with the listed property sector to find a workable long-term solution.
For Prime time which was reporting for their half year period ended February 2019 estimates of the taxation payable have been made in these interim financials and the provisional tax payable of P4.5m for the period has been provided for. The company communicated that the interest distribution already paid for the 4 months to 31 December 2018 was adjusted for the tax cost.
The 2018 Income Tax amendment Bill was passed parliament late last year after an urgent proposition to legislators by Minister of Finance & Economic Development Kenneth Matambo with a view to clean Botswana and remove the tax haven tag that was painted about the country worldwide.
When presenting the bill then, Minister Matambo told lawmakers that it was critical that the amended Bill be passed to enable Botswana to meet the requirements with the Forum on Harmful Tax Practices, an initiative of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). “Such amendment is mainly to remove the features that have been identified as potentially harmful by the Forum on Harmful Tax Practices. Based on the commitment to amend the Act, Botswana is scheduled for a final review by the Forum on Harmful Tax Practices in January 2019” he said
He convinced Members of Parliament that the passage of the Bill was a move imperative to put Botswana on the right path, so as to be able to pass the January 2019 review by this Forum on Harmful Tax Practices. Matambo emphasized to parliament that it was important for Botswana to amend the act in order to remove what he termed “the ring-fencing in order to comply with the requirements of the Forum on Harmful Tax Practices” and also to revitalize the sector. The amendment‘s effect was that that the process of offshore trade would still be taxed at 15 per cent, while those of domestic trade will be taxed at the normal rate of 22 per cent.
Ever since the amendment was announced observers have been sharing different views about the act , Tumelo Rannau a local tax expert and commentator observed in his series of opinion publication on this newspaper that though some developments such as restricting trading to related parties is a welcome development about move as it is aligned to international practice, the new amendment may result in the country being less competitive compared to countries that we have been competing with such as Seychelles and Mauritius.
“This may lead to loss in revenue in terms of directors’ fees, company secretary fees, legal fees, audit fees, and general business expenses to those that provided support services. Income that would otherwise be earned through spending on transport and accommodation by foreign investors visiting the country is also likely to be lost. Though it is always good to get accolades from organizations such as OECD, it is important to consider the country’s needs and strive towards ensuring that unemployment is reduced” he said.
Business
Botswana financial sector safe despite high unsecured household loans – IMF
Botswana’s financial sector has been deemed safe and resilient by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), despite the presence of high levels of unsecured household loans. The IMF’s 2023 report on the country’s financial sector highlights the robustness of Botswana’s banking system and its ability to withstand various shocks.
According to the report, credit risk is the largest risk in Botswana’s banking system, with a significant portion of total assets comprising loans concentrated in the household sector. Specifically, 70 percent of bank loans to households in Botswana are personal loans, primarily in the form of unsecured consumer credit. However, the IMF notes that a large share of lenders collect repayments through direct salary deduction, resulting in a generally low level of non-performing household loans.
The IMF’s assessment confirms that most banking entities in Botswana have strong capital buffers, which would enable them to survive even in the event of an increase in non-performing loans in the household sector. While a 20 percent transition of performing loans into non-performing loans would result in some banks experiencing a significant capital shortfall, the majority of banks possess robust total capital buffers and would remain unaffected by severe shocks to household loans.
Furthermore, the IMF team conducted Bank Solvency Stress Tests, which demonstrated that Botswana’s banking system remains profitable and resilient to severe macro-financial shocks. The stress tests revealed that the aggregate capital depletion in an adverse scenario is relatively small, amounting to less than 0.02 percent of GDP. Although credit risk increases significantly under the adverse scenario, the impact on the capital ratio from rising non-performing loans is outweighed by the increase in net interest income.
The IMF’s assessment also indicates that Botswana’s financial sector weathered the Covid-19 pandemic well. The authorities have made notable progress in strengthening financial supervisory and regulatory frameworks since 2007. The financial sector is deemed stable, sound, and resilient, with risks primarily related to banks’ high concentration of short-term deposits from retirement funds and insurance companies, volatility in diamond prices, geopolitical developments, and tightening global financial conditions. However, the financial system remains resilient to a wide range of shocks associated with these risks, although some vulnerabilities exist.
The Financial Stability Council (FSC), a statutory body led by the Governor of the Bank of Botswana, also recently affirmed the resilience and safety of the domestic financial system. The FSC’s assessment found that the financial sector in Botswana is robust, safe, and unconstrained in providing a range of financial services to support the economy. This resilience is attributed to strong capital and liquidity buffers, profitability, continuous innovation and adaptability, and a robust regulatory environment. The FSC believes that the macroeconomic environment, characterized by positive economic growth, well-managed government fiscal position, and modest inflation, further supports financial stability. Stress tests conducted on banks validate their strong solvency and resilience.
IMF concludes that Botswana’s financial sector remains safe and resilient, despite the presence of high levels of unsecured household loans. The IMF’s assessment highlights the strong capital buffers of banking entities, their ability to withstand shocks, and the overall stability of the financial system. The country’s financial sector has also demonstrated its resilience during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Financial Stability Council further affirms the safety and effectiveness of the financial system in providing financial services to support the economy.
Business
Botala Energy debuts on the BSE
Botala Energy, an Australian energy company, recently made its debut on the Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE), joining a growing number of energy development companies trading on the exchange. The company, established in 2018, is focused on exploring and developing natural gas and renewable energy opportunities in Botswana, particularly in the Serowe Gas Project and Solar Opportunities.
The listing of Botala Energy on the BSE was welcomed by Mr Tsamatse Mamola, the Head of Listings & Tradings at the exchange. He recognized the company as a pioneering force in the field of gas exploration and development. Mamola also highlighted the company’s commitment to clean energy production, which aligns with the global movement towards sustainable practices. By harnessing the potential of coal bed methane in the Serowe Project and integrating it with solar power generation, Botala Energy is not only innovating in the energy sector but also contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Mamola emphasized the significance of Botala Energy’s decision to list all of its issued shares on the BSE. This move demonstrates the company’s confidence in the exchange as a strategic partner in its corporate journey. The listing provides Botala Energy with access to diverse sources of capital, which will be instrumental in advancing its exploration and development projects, fostering technological innovation, and achieving its clean energy production goals. The BSE, as a facilitator of capital raising, plays a crucial role in supporting ambitious initiatives and fostering growth.
The listing of Botala Energy also brings benefits to the broader Botswana economy. It increases investor interest, contributing to the liquidity and vibrancy of the market. Botswana, traditionally reliant on diamonds, recognizes the importance of diversifying its economic base. The inclusion of a dynamic and forward-looking company like Botala Energy on the exchange reflects the evolving economic landscape of the nation.
In the pursuit of economic diversification, the Botswana Stock Exchange serves as a bridge connecting visionary companies with investors who share their commitment to progress. By providing a marketplace for a diverse range of industries, from traditional sectors to emerging technologies, the exchange becomes a catalyst for economic resilience and sustainability.
Peter Grant, the Non-Executive Director of Botala Energy, shared some insights into the company’s operations. Since commencing exploration in Botswana, Botala has made significant progress, drilling exploration wells and pilot production wells. The company expects to become a modest producer of commercial gas within 12 months and increase production rapidly. Botala Energy has independently certified gas reserves and prospective resources within its project area, which have the potential to supply significant amounts of gas for power generation.
Grant also mentioned Botala Energy’s focus on delivering Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to off-grid communities, providing them with reliable and affordable electricity and gas. The company is exploring the commercial option of establishing an Energy Hub and Industrial Park near Palapye, where it aims to produce energy for Botswana and export it to neighboring South Africa. Additionally, Botala Energy plans to establish a solar/gas hybrid plant in Serowe to feed into the local grid, in collaboration with the Ngwato Development Trust.
Market analysts say the listing of Botala Energy on the Botswana Stock Exchange marks an important milestone for the company and the energy sector in Botswana. It provides the company with access to capital, fosters economic growth and diversification, and contributes to the global movement towards sustainable energy practices. Botala Energy’s innovative approach to gas exploration and development, combined with its commitment to clean energy production, positions it as a key player in shaping a greener and more sustainable future for Botswana.
Business
Beverages dominate Botswana’s food imports
Beverages dominate Botswana’s food imports for August 2023, according to the latest figures released by Statistics Botswana. The country imported beverages, spirits, and vinegar worth approximately P332 million during this month. This is a significant increase from the previous month, where the food import bill slightly rose from P1,063,990,477.2 in July 2023 to P1,233,702,300.4 in August 2023.
The total imports for Botswana in August 2023 were valued at P6,995,115,623.2, compared to P6,897,364,155.2 recorded in July 2023. Food imports accounted for 15.9 percent of this amount, contributing P1,233,702,300.4. Among the food items imported, beverages, spirits, and vinegar accounted for the majority at 26.9 percent. Cereals and sugars followed with 13.4 percent and 8.8 percent, respectively.
Within the category of beverages, spirits, and vinegar, the most imported commodities were mineral waters and aerated waters containing sugar or other sweetening matter or flavored, contributing 47.0 percent. Beer made from malt accounted for 16.7 percent, while fermented beverages and non-alcoholic beverages accounted for 15.9 percent. The import bill for beverages, spirits, and vinegar shows that the country imported mineral waters and aerated waters containing added sugar or other sweetening matter or flavored worth approximately P156 million. Beer made from malt accounted for around P55 million, while fermented beverages and non-alcoholic beverages were valued at around P79.1 million. Wine and liqueurs and cordials were also imported, with values of P12.6 million and P6.4 million, respectively.
In terms of cereals, dried maize excluding seed and other wheat and muslin accounted for 42.3 percent and 27.4 percent, respectively. Rice imports contributed 21.2 percent. The country spent approximately P165 million on cereal imports, with dried maize accounting for around P70 million, wheat around P45 million, and rice around P44.7 million.
Other food imports included preparations of cereals, flour, starch, or milk; pastry cooks’ products, which amounted to around P89 million. Preparations of vegetables, fruit, nuts, or other parts of plants accounted for around P88 million, while sugars and sugar confectionery were valued at around P108 million. Miscellaneous edible preparations, animal or vegetable fats and oils, dairy produce, prepared animal fodder, coffee, tea, and spices, fruits and nuts, meat, vegetables and certain roots and tubers, and products of the milling industry such as malt, starches, and wheat gluten were also imported, with values ranging from P13 million to P74.6 million.
In conclusion, beverages, particularly mineral waters and aerated waters containing sugar or other sweetening matter or flavored, dominate Botswana’s food imports for August 2023. The country also imports a significant amount of cereals, sugars, and other food products. These figures highlight the country’s reliance on imported food items and the need for strategies to promote domestic production and reduce dependence on imports.