Abstract
M.Com. (SA and International Tax)
The term “beneficial owner” is found in 64 of the 71 double tax agreements signed by
South Africa. However, there is no definition of the term in the Income Tax Act or
within the orbit of international taxation. There are international court cases in
relation to the interpretation of the term. The fact that there are inconsistencies in the
treaties signed by South Africa may result in treaty shopping opportunities.
The study aims to define the term “beneficial owner”; to view other necessary acts
and other forms of supporting legislature when interpreting a treaty; and
subsequently, to explore the term as used in South African double tax agreements.