EU expansion Essentials for American Businesses

Episode 10: A CPA's Guide to International VAT/GST Exposure

David Tuomey

International VAT and GST exposure is one of the most overlooked—and costly—issues facing US companies with international sales. In this episode, we explore why sophisticated buyers flag this issue immediately during M&A due diligence, why tax authorities are now actively pursuing it, and what CPAs need to know to protect their clients.

Featuring industry experts Nick Uren (Senior Manager of International Tax at Aldrich) and Sean King (President of Align Global Consulting, with nearly 30 years of international tax experience), we break down:

✓ The "unintentional expansion" problem: How companies inadvertently create international VAT/GST exposure ✓ The advisory gap: Why traditional corporate tax analysis misses this critical issue ✓ Real-world impact: How unresolved exposure derails M&A transactions and triggers tax authority inquiries ✓ Practical strategies: How to identify, assess, and resolve exposure before it becomes a problem ✓ Your role as an advisor: How to add this to your client advisory checklist and provide genuine value

Whether you're a CPA advising growing companies, a business advisor working with entrepreneurs, or a business owner planning an exit, this conversation will change how you think about international operations.

Key Takeaway: International VAT and GST exposure is real and growing—but it's entirely manageable when addressed proactively.

Guests:

Nick Uren, Senior Manager of International Tax and Transfer Pricing, Aldrich

Sean King, President and Managing Director, Align Global Consulting

Host: David Tuomey - Orsa Saiwai Europe