Advanced Taxation – MLA

Course Description

The Advanced Taxation – Malta (ATX-MLA) syllabus further develops the key aspects of taxation introduced in the compulsory Taxation – Malta (TX-MLA) syllabus within the Applied Skills module and extends the candidates’ knowledge of the tax system, together with their ability to apply that knowledge to the issues commonly encountered by individuals and businesses; such that successful candidates should have the ability to interpret and analyse the information provided and communicate the outcomes in a manner appropriate to the intended audience.

The syllabus builds on the basic knowledge of core taxes from the earlier taxation exam and introduces candidates to additional capital taxes (such as duty on documents and transfers) and tax incentives (such as those contemplated under the Malta Enterprise Act). As this is an optional exam, aimed at those requiring/desiring more than basic tax knowledge for their future professional lives, the syllabus also extends the knowledge of income tax to encompass further international aspects of taxation.

Section E of the syllabus contains outcomes relating to the demonstration of appropriate digital and employability skills in preparing for and taking the examination. This includes being able to access and open exhibits, requirements and response options from different sources and being able to use the relevant functionality and technology to prepare and present response options in a professional manner. These skills are specifically developed by practicing and preparing for the exam, using the learning support content for computer-based exams available via the practice platform and the ACCA website and will need to be demonstrated during the live exam.

Computations will normally only be required in support of explanations or advice and not in isolation. Candidates are not expected to concentrate on the computational aspects of taxation. Instead, this paper seeks to develop candidates’ skills of analysis, interpretation and communication. Candidates are expected to be able to use established tax planning methods and consider current issues in taxation.