Global Tax 50 2015: Liao Tizhong

Liao Tizhong was also in the Global Tax 50 2014, and 2013

Liao Tizhong is another familiar face for Global Tax 50 fans, having featured in the 2013 and 2014 lists, and a tumultuous year for China certainly kept him on his toes during 2015.

At the end of 2014, Liao outlined for ITR the themes on his agenda for the year. Looking back, it is clear that he has delivered on each item on that checklist – from involvement in BEPS and other G20 initiatives to enhancing IT systems to help the SAT function more effectively.

He also pledged to set up organisations to discharge the functions of tax administration on outbound investment and offshore income; another area that was delivered upon in 2015.

Liao was the technical supporter to China's role in the G20 in international tax matters including the BEPS Project, Common Reporting Standard and Multilateral Convention on Mutual Assistance, and was appointed as a vice-chair of the ad hoc group for BEPS Action 15 (multilateral instrument for the revision of tax treaties), along with fellow Global Tax 50 2015 entrants Mohammed Amine Baina and Kim Jacinto-Henares.

In line with China's increasing desire to play a lead role in global affairs, Liao championed the national strategy for the outbound investment elements attached to the 'One Belt One Road' initiative, making the strategy more viable through the provision of better tax services and the reduction of burdens for investors into major countries along the belt and road.

He has been quick to look at the best ways to implement BEPS deliverables and has used the opportunity to revise many Chinese international tax rules to foster the country's integration into globalisation – work that will continue to occupy him throughout 2016.

Liao says he wants to continue to push China from norm-taker to norm-shaper in the year ahead. With lead roles in a number of forums, 2016 is going to ensure Liao is busier than ever, particularly as Action 15 work intensifies and the G20 Summit and Forum on Tax Administration plenary meeting approach.