Nigeria Netherlands tax renegotiation kicks off as both countries seek to update their agreement in line with recent reforms signed into law in 2025

The Nigeria Netherlands tax renegotiation has officially begun as both countries move to update their double taxation agreement to reflect recent fiscal reforms.

Also read: Nigeria Tax Reforms Bring Major Relief to Low-Income Earners

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) hosted the Netherlands’ delegation, led by Ambassador Bengt van Loosdrecht, at the Revenue House in Abuja.

The development follows the recent signing of comprehensive tax reform laws by President Bola Tinubu in June 2025.

The renegotiation aims to modernise outdated provisions in the Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) between both countries, particularly those that no longer reflect global tax standards.

The meeting, hosted by FIRS Executive Chairman Dr. Zacch Adedeji at the Revenue House in Abuja, marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen international tax cooperation.

The Dutch delegation was led by Ambassador Bengt van Loosdrecht.

“Recent developments in the domestic and global tax landscape have made the review of the existing agreement unavoidable,” Adedeji said.

“This renegotiation aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to tax transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness.”

With this development, the Netherlands becomes the first foreign government to formally begin talks with Nigeria to update its tax treaty.

The renegotiation process will bring the agreement in line with the Nigeria Tax Act, Tax Administration Act, and the newly established Nigeria Revenue Service Act.

The FIRS stated that one of the primary goals is to eliminate barriers to fair taxation and prevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS)—a major concern in international tax regulation.
Mutual Commitment to Fair Negotiations

Ambassador van Loosdrecht described the meeting as a testament to mutual goodwill and expressed optimism about the outcome of the negotiations.

“Ultimately, a treaty is about finding common ground. Both sides have professional teams, and I’m confident we’ll have a fruitful week,” he said.

He reiterated the Netherlands’ readiness to work in good faith toward a balanced agreement that benefits both economies.

The FIRS confirmed that a six-month transition period will follow, during which existing tax treaties will be reviewed, harmonised, and aligned with the newly enacted reforms ahead of the January 1, 2026 launch of the Nigeria Revenue Service.

“This transition period will also cover the review of existing tax agreements to ensure they reflect the provisions of the new reforms,” the statement added.

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This initiative is part of broader fiscal reforms aimed at broadening Nigeria’s tax base, enhancing administrative efficiency, and attracting responsible foreign investment through clear, enforceable tax frameworks.