EWA reviews VAT applying mechanisms

Manama, Jan. 8 (BNA): In response to His Majesty the King’s instructions to review the mechanisms of applying the VAT during its trial period that takes into account citizens’ needs, the Ministry of Electricity and Water Affairs (EWA) reviewed the mechanisms of applying the VAT on the supply of electricity and water services in coordination with the National Bureau for Taxation (NBT). Today’s discussion reviewed the mechanisms of applying VAT to ensure that eligible citizens are granted the subsidies they are entitled to, in line with HM the King’s Royal Directives that reduced the electricity usage charge for domestic consumption from 6 to 3 fils, and the introduction of government subsidies to citizens with one account in 2015. Citizens wishing to benefit from the scheme must register through the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s website, webpage will be announced later, and provide their personal number, the first account’s electricity and water account number, Smartcard’s expiry date, address and the contact details. The VAT charge will be deposited through a pre-payment process.