Corporate tax in New Caledonia (NC) plays a central role in the country’s business environment. This overview outlines current corporate income tax rates, assessment basis, and key surcharges applicable for the year 2025, allowing businesses and advisors to make informed decisions.
Corporate Income Tax Overview
As of 2025, New Caledonia applies a progressive corporate income tax system. While the official rate structure is labelled “progressive,” the current data shows a unified standard rate without multiple income brackets. Corporate tax applies to entities on all corporate income.
| Taxable Income Range (XPF) | Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| 0 and above | 30% |
Note: The absence of additional tiers indicates all corporate profits, regardless of size, are taxed at a flat 30% rate. The assessment basis is strictly corporate income earned during the fiscal year. If you require the USD equivalent, using an approximate 2025 exchange rate of 1 USD = 110 XPF, the 30% rate applies to all income from $0 (USD) upward.
Key Surtaxes and Additional Contributions
Beyond the central corporate tax rate, several surtaxes and contributions can apply. Their effect depends on your company’s sector, profit level, and distribution policy. The table below summarizes these possible charges:
| Surtax/Contribution | Rate (%) | Condition | Threshold/Details (XPF) | USD Equivalent (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metallurgical or Mining Surtax | 35% | Metallurgical or mining activities | – | – |
| Reduced CIT Rate | 15% | Companies meeting turnover thresholds | – | – |
| CAIS Surtax | 3% | On income distributed | Above 30,000,000 XPF | Approximately $272,727 |
| CSA (Additional Social Contribution) | 5%-15% | Progressive – applies if taxable income at standard rate reaches/exceeds threshold | 200,000,000 XPF | Approximately $1,818,182 |
The presence of significant sectoral and distribution-based surtaxes can materially impact total effective tax rates. For companies in metallurgical or mining sectors, the surcharge is especially high. Conversely, some companies may qualify for a substantially reduced 15% rate if they meet certain turnover criteria, though the exact thresholds are not publicly disclosed as of 2025.
Assessment Basis and Special Provisions
Corporate income tax in NC is assessed on corporate profits. There is no explicit holding period applicable for the main corporate tax regime, and official figures regarding minimum or maximum holding periods have not been released by authorities.
Quick Reference: Corporate Tax Regime Key Details
| Parameter | Details (2025) |
|---|---|
| Currency | XPF (CFP Franc), ~110 XPF = $1 USD |
| Corporate Tax Type | Progressive (with a single 30% rate for most income) |
| Standard Corporate Tax Rate | 30% |
| Key Surtaxes | Up to 35% (sector specific); see above |
| Reduced CIT Rate | 15% (turnover criteria apply) |
| Assessment Basis | All corporate profits earned |
| Holding Period Min/Max | Not specified |
Pro Tips for Managing Corporate Tax in New Caledonia
- Carefully review whether your business activities may fall under the metallurgical or mining category, as this would trigger the 35% sector surtax over the standard rate.
- If your company’s taxable income exceeds XPF 200 million (~$1.8 million USD), anticipate planning for the additional CSA social contribution, which is progressive and can reach 15%.
- Distributions above XPF 30 million (~$272,727 USD) are subject to a 3% CAIS surtax, so consider timing and distribution strategies within your company’s financial planning.
- Review eligibility for the reduced 15% CIT rate, particularly if your organization’s turnover may fall within qualifying thresholds (details to be confirmed with NC authorities).
- Regularly consult the official government portal for the most up-to-date legislative changes: https://www.gouv.nc/.
Additional Notes and Considerations
Corporate tax outcomes in NC can be significantly impacted by industry-specific rules and distribution policies. The effect of multiple surtaxes and contributions means that headline rates may understate the effective tax burden for some companies, particularly in the mining, metallurgical, or high-distribution segments.
To summarize, corporate tax in New Caledonia in 2025 is broadly centered around a flat 30% rate, with sectoral surcharges and special provisions for high-distribution or high-profit companies. Understanding the nuanced application of these rules—including thresholds and sector classifications—is essential for optimizing tax outcomes. Always verify sector definitions and consult government channels for latest clarifications or updates on specific thresholds and exemptions.