Apple has updated its App Store pricing framework and tax regulations in various localities.
Recently, Apple unveiled an overhaul to the pricing structure and tax systems affecting developers operating in a range of markets, with certain modifications having already commenced on February 6.
As noted on the Apple Developer webpage, these adjustments are part of the company’s periodic reviews that respond to shifts in taxation laws or fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
The changes announced by Apple will have immediate effects on developers across several countries spanning Europe, Asia, and South America.
As of February 6, 2025, developer earnings have been altered in regions including:
- Azerbaijan: Introduction of an 18% Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Peru: Introduction of an 18% VAT
- Slovakia: Increase of the standard VAT rate from 20% to 23%
- Slovakia: Adoption of a reduced VAT rate at 5% for eBooks
- Estonia: Rise of the reduced VAT rate from 5% to 9% for periodicals like news publications and magazines
- Finland: Increased reduced VAT from 10% to14% applicable for eBooks
Furthermore, modifications have been made to Exhibit B within the Paid Applications Agreement, specifying Apple’s responsibility for collecting and remitting necessary taxes in both Azerbaijan and Peru. Additional alterations will come into effect starting February 24, 2025.
‘Pricing adjustments regarding applications and In-App Purchases will be observed for both Azerbaijan and Peru storefronts if these options haven’t been designated as defaults,’ stated a portion of their announcement.
‘The latest updates include considerations related to newly introduced VAT structures as mentioned prior. If you’ve set up either Azerbaijan or Peru as your primary storefronts for apps or In-App Purchases previously chosen prices remain unchanged.’
Tax Revisions Planned for Japan
In addition to global updates, Apple reported upcoming revisions affecting Japan set for April1 due a shift in taxation regulations which has emerged after reports suggested that firms such as Apple might assume tax liabilities instead of developers themselves.
< p >These regulatory developments categorize Apple under a Specified Platform Operator by Japan’s taxation authority. Henceforward all paid applications along with In-App purchases handled by non-Japanese developers through their App Store are subjected obligate platform taxes.< / p >< p >From there onwards upon these transactions they must impose ten percent Japanese Consumption Tax while adjusting forecasted developer commissions correspondingly although any sale involving virtual goods such obtained before April1 ,2025 wouldn’t incur additional duties。 p >
< P > Developers can review how these amendments affect them via Pricing availability options present within My Apps section located inside App Store Connect . More comprehensive information may also be accessed through affiliated webpages maintained by Apple Developer . P >