Corporate Income Tax credit for donations of social housing
On April 2, 2026, the Reform Law to the Internal Tax Regime Law entered into force, aimed at promoting the construction of social housing. This reform introduces a Corporate Income Tax credit for taxpayers who donate social housing units covering the full government subsidy corresponding to the first segment. Additionally, the benefit is extended to taxpayers who donate the amount corresponding to the partial government subsidy for financing social housing within the second segment.
The tax credit is equal to 100% of the donated amount, with a maximum limit of 30% of the Corporate Income Tax liability for the respective fiscal year, and it is non-refundable. To apply this benefit, the regulation requires the execution of an agreement between the donor and the governing authority of housing and urban development, establishing the conditions for the delivery of the assets or funds.
This benefit is temporary and will apply to Corporate Income Tax for fiscal years 2026 through 2029.
SRI amends the regime applicable to dematerialized credit notes
The Ecuadorian Tax Administration has amended the regulations governing the issuance, use, and control of dematerialized credit notes.
Among the main changes, it is established that dematerialized credit notes issued by the Tax Administration will generate an available balance in the taxpayer’s account statement within the SRI online portal. This balance may be used for the total or partial payment of tax obligations, including penalties and interest. However, in the case of tax liabilities assessed by the Tax Administration, their use is limited to a maximum of 60% of the amount payable in each return, with the remaining balance to be settled through traditional payment methods.
Additionally, the possibility of using such credit notes as a guarantee mechanism in customs matters has been eliminated, and it is clarified that certain restrictions will apply depending on the type of tax obligation.
Tax Administration clarifies the application of VAT rates on food
Through Circular No. NAC-DGECCGC26-00000002, the Ecuadorian Internal Revenue Service (SRI) clarified the VAT rate applicable to various food products such as bread, milk, pasta, among others, which according to the Administration’s criteria are subject to the standard 15% VAT rate.
Subsequently, through Circular No. NAC-DGECCGC26-00000005, the SRI refined the interpretation of Circular No. NAC-DGECCGC26-00000002 and clarified that domestically produced skimmed and semi-skimmed milk remains subject to the 0% VAT rate, provided that it has only undergone the physical process of fat separation. However, when additional processes are applied that alter its nature such as the incorporation of additives, enzymes, flavorings or fruits its transfer will be subject to the 15% VAT rate.
Furthermore, it indicated that bread products will be subject to the 15% VAT rate when they do not meet the definition or requirements established under the Ecuadorian Technical Standard NTE INEN 2945 number 3.