The tax treatment in the export of services is a key issue for companies operating internationally, especially in countries like Peru where tax compliance, transparency, and auditing standards are strictly regulated. Understanding how export services are taxed and how different types of financial auditing support compliance is essential to avoid penalties, optimize processes, and ensure sustainable growth.
This article explains the tax treatment of service exports in Peru and connects it with the role of financial audit, tax audit, external audit, and NIIF audit, as well as the importance of working with a reputable audit firm in Peru, particularly in Lima and the southern regions of the country.
Tax Treatment in the Export of Services in Peru
In Peru, the export of services is generally exempt from Value Added Tax (IGV), provided that specific legal requirements are met. According to Peruvian tax regulations, a service qualifies as an export when:
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The service is provided to a non-resident client.
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The service is economically used abroad.
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Payment is received in foreign currency.
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The service provider is domiciled in Peru.
Proper documentation and accounting records are essential to support this tax treatment. This is where tax audits and financial audits play a crucial role in validating compliance with SUNAT requirements.
What Is Financial Auditing?
What is financial auditing? Financial auditing is the independent examination of a company’s financial statements to determine whether they fairly present the financial position and results of operations, in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
In Peru, financial audits may be required for regulatory, contractual, or strategic reasons, particularly for companies involved in international services and cross-border transactions.
Objectives of Financial Auditing
The objectives of financial auditing include:
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Verifying the accuracy of financial statements.
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Ensuring compliance with tax and accounting regulations.
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Detecting material misstatements or fraud risks.
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Supporting management decision-making.
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Strengthening credibility with investors and authorities.
For companies exporting services, these objectives are closely linked to tax compliance and correct application of tax benefits.
Stages and Phases of Financial Auditing
The stages of financial auditing (also known as the phases of financial auditing) typically include:
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Planning – Understanding the business, risks, and regulatory environment.
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Internal Control Evaluation – Reviewing accounting and tax control systems.
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Audit Execution – Testing transactions, balances, and supporting documents.
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Audit Reporting – Issuing the financial audit report with conclusions and recommendations.
Each phase is essential to confirm that service exports are correctly classified and supported.
Types of Auditing Services in Peru
External Audit in Peru
An external audit in Peru is conducted by an independent audit firm to provide assurance on financial statements. This type of audit is common for medium and large companies, multinational subsidiaries, and entities with foreign clients.
Tax Audit
A tax audit focuses on verifying compliance with Peruvian tax laws, including the correct application of IGV exemptions for service exports. This audit helps companies avoid SUNAT penalties and contingencies.
NIIF Audit
A NIIF audit ensures that financial statements comply with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). This is especially relevant for companies exporting services, as foreign clients and investors often require NIIF-compliant reporting.
Government Financial Audit
Government financial auditing applies to public entities and companies with government contracts, ensuring transparency and proper use of public funds.
Audit Consulting Services
Audit consulting services go beyond compliance. They help companies improve internal controls, optimize financial processes, and strengthen tax planning strategies related to service exports.
Auditing Services by Region
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Audit in Lima: Lima concentrates the largest audit firms in Peru, offering specialized services for international operations.
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Audit for companies in southern Peru: Growing regions require tailored audit solutions adapted to local industries and export activities.
How to Comply with Auditing Standards in Peru
How to comply with auditing standards in Peru? Companies should:
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Maintain proper accounting and tax documentation.
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Apply NIIF correctly.
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Work with qualified external auditors.
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Perform regular internal and tax audits.
Compliance reduces risks and enhances credibility with SUNAT and international partners.
Benefits of Hiring Audit Services in Peru
Why Hire Audit Services in Peru?
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To ensure tax compliance in service exports.
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To avoid SUNAT sanctions.
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To improve financial transparency.
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To optimize financial and tax processes.
Audit to Optimize Financial Processes in Peru
Audits identify inefficiencies, control weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, especially in companies with complex export operations.
Cost of Auditing in Peru
How much does an audit cost in Peru? The cost depends on:
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Company size and complexity.
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Type of audit (financial, tax, NIIF, external).
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Industry and geographic location.
Investing in auditing is often less costly than facing tax penalties or financial misstatements.
Best Audit Firms in Peru
The best audit firms in Peru combine technical expertise, local tax knowledge, and international standards. Choosing a reliable audit firm in Peru is essential for companies exporting services.
Conclusion
Understanding the tax treatment in the export of services and aligning it with strong financial auditing practices is critical for companies operating in Peru. From external audits and tax audits to NIIF compliance and audit consulting, professional auditing services provide security, efficiency, and long-term value.