Emerging trends in cross-border mergers and their tax implications in India: A critical appraisal

Abstract

The Indian economy has seen steady and sustainable growth over the past decade, even though other countries have been cash-strapped and suffering from stagnation. Most of this development is due to the inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into India through cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and the unparalleled rise in the size and number of cross-border M&A in India with a favourable market climate for such trade. As a business strategy, cross-border M&As in India are rife with many legal complexities and issues. This paper documents the steady growth of cross-border M&A activity in India over the years and presents a comprehensive depiction of cross-border M&As, what the applicable laws are, what the legal issues and complexities involved are, and finally how they can be offset. The paper highlights the tax implications and issues involved in a cross-border M&A and how far the Income Tax Act, 1961 is attuned with the corporate laws in force to promote cross-border M&As in India. The paper concludes with a broader observation that cross-border M&As bring massive economic benefits and global stature to a growing economic superpower like India. For this reason, the business and legal environment should be made more conducive to cross-border M&A activity.