IRD and ECCO Sign Historic MOU: Aiming to Enhance Tax Compliance and Protect Music Rights

Saint Lucia’s evolving music industry has entered a significant strategic partnership designed to elevate the status of artists, songwriters, producers, and professionals within the literary field.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and the Eastern Caribbean Collective Organisation for Music Rights (ECCO) Inc. establishes a collaborative framework focused on enhancing transparency, compliance, and the protection of music rights throughout Saint Lucia.

Signed at the IRD’s principal office at the Heraldine Rock Building, this agreement marks a structured partnership allowing both organizations to exchange crucial information relevant to tax administration and music licensing. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to fostering a stronger business environment where creators, publishers, and performers receive fair compensation for their work.

Under the MOU, IRD and ECCO will work together in several critical areas, including the exchange of data such as ticket sales and event attendance figures to facilitate accurate tax assessments and ensure compliance with music user license requirements.

Additionally, the partnership will extend to joint efforts in overlapping jurisdictions, including referrals of potential violations and cooperation in criminal investigations.

Confidentiality safeguards ensure that all exchanged information is treated as confidential, adhering to the respective legal frameworks of both parties, including the Income Tax Act, VAT Act, Copyright Act, and Companies Act of Saint Lucia.

While live events, particularly ticket sales and attendance reporting, are a primary focus, the MOU also encourages broader cooperation in general tax compliance, music licensing enforcement, and coordinated investigations beyond the events sector.

“This MOU marks a significant step toward ensuring the music industry operates with integrity and fairness,” stated Martin A. James, CEO of ECCO. “By working closely with IRD, we can better safeguard our members’ rights and promote accountability within the entertainment sector.”

The Comptroller of IRD, Ms. Felicia Ellie, emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “Partnerships between public revenue authorities and creative sector organizations are essential. This agreement will not only bolster tax compliance but also support the creative industry by ensuring that legal obligations are met transparently and efficiently.”

Through ongoing dialogue and cooperation, this partnership aims to cultivate a sustainable, accountable, and legally compliant environment that supports music licensing and the continued growth of the orange economy and related business activities in Saint Lucia.

The MOU is governed by the laws of Saint Lucia and will remain in effect until modified or terminated by either party.