Chartered Accountants◆Practising since 2016

China to India · Tax treaty

The India–China tax treaty: rates, permanent establishment and gains

CA Utsav Dogra, Chartered Accountant, ICAI M. No. 542375 · Updated

In brief

Under the India–China tax treaty (1994, amended 2018), India's tax on payments to a Chinese resident is capped at 10% on dividends, 10% on interest and 10% on royalties. Technical fees: 10%.

What is specific to Chinese companies

The India–China treaty, amended in 2018, applies 10% to dividends, interest, royalties and technical fees; a 183-day test applies to service PEs.

Treaty rates

IncomeIndian tax under the treaty
Dividends10%
Interest10%
Royalties10%
Technical service feesTechnical fees: 10%.
Gains on Indian sharesIndia can tax under its domestic law.

Permanent establishment

Services through employees for more than 183 days create a permanent establishment.

Our services

How SU and Company helps

We plan and document how money moves back to the parent, at the right treaty rate.

  • Dividend, royalty, fee and interest planning
  • Treaty withholding and remittance paperwork
  • Board and FEMA steps for dividends and buybacks
  • Indian figures and certificates for the parent's tax relief

Questions

Does the treaty always beat Indian domestic rates?

The lower of the treaty and domestic rate applies, provided the recipient is the beneficial owner and holds a valid residency certificate.

General information as at 5 November 2026, not advice for a particular case. Indian and Chinese rules change often; confirm the current position before acting. Chinese law points should be confirmed with a Chinese adviser.

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