Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes

Established in 2009, the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes brings 174 jurisdictions together, including all OECD countries, all G20 countries and financial centres. The majority of its members are developing countries. They work together on an equal footing to advance tax transparency and put an end to offshore tax evasion, in support of domestic resource mobilisation. Enhanced tax transparency and exchange of information have helped uncover at least EUR 135 billion in additional revenues since 2009, of which about EUR 48 billion identified by developing countries.

The Global Forum delivers for all its members through continuous monitoring and rigorous peer reviewing of their implementation of the international tax transparency standards: the standard on transparency and exchange of information on request (EOIR) and the standards for automatic exchange of information, covering financial accounts under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS), and crypto-asset transactions under the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF), including robust assessment processes for the related confidentiality and data safeguard requirements.

The Global Forum has been implementing a comprehensive capacity-building programme since 2011 to support the effective implementation and use of the tax transparency standards. The programme includes training events, peer-learning initiatives, technical assistance, toolkits, and e-learning courses covering all aspects of tax transparency and exchange of information. Each year, it helps build the capacities of thousands of tax officials worldwide. It also provides direct assistance to around 100 jurisdictions, helping them strengthen their legal frameworks, operational capacities, and implement the standards.