Interpretation of Tax Treaties
Discover how tax treaties are interpreted under international law, using principles from the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties. This guide simplifies complex treaty language and shows how countries like Ghana apply it to prevent double taxation.

Introduction: What Is a Tax Treaty?
A tax treaty is a formal agreement between two countries that determines how much tax a person or company should pay when earning income in both countries. These agreements help avoid double taxation and promote fair international taxation.
For example, if a Ghanaian company earns profits in France, both Ghana and France might want to tax that same income. The Ghana–France tax treaty ensures the company isn’t taxed twice on the same income. Tax treaties also help prevent evasion and promote cross-border trade.
What Does “Interpretation” Mean?
Interpretation means understanding what the words in a tax treaty were meant to convey when the agreement was signed. Since treaties are written in technical legal terms, interpretation ensures both countries apply them fairly and consistently.
How Do Countries Interpret a Tax Treaty?
- Ordinary Meaning of the Words: Use the everyday meaning of terms like “business profits” or “residence.”
- Context: Read the treaty as a whole so each article fits logically.
- Purpose (Object and Aim): Interpret provisions to prevent double taxation and promote fairness.
- Later Agreements: Use mutual understandings agreed upon after signing.
- Treaty Definitions: Follow definitions provided in the treaty before using domestic law.
These principles come from the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT), the foundation of treaty interpretation worldwide.
Why Does Interpretation Matter?
Interpretation determines who gets to tax the income—and how much. For instance, a Kenyan YouTuber earning from UK viewers may fall under the “royalties” clause of the UK–Kenya treaty. How “royalties” is interpreted decides whether the UK or Kenya taxes the income.
🧰 Tools Used in the Interpretation of Tax Treaties
International law provides several tools to interpret treaties fairly and uniformly:
Tool | What It Does | Importance |
---|---|---|
VCLT | Sets the rules for treaty interpretation | Foundation for all treaties |
Treaty Definitions | Provides official meanings for key terms | Must be applied first |
Protocol | Adds clarifications or amendments | Legally binding |
MoU | Explains mutual understanding of terms | Prevents disputes |
OECD/UN Commentaries | Offer expert explanations | Helpful reference |
Technical Explanations | Country-specific clarifications | Reveal legislative intent |
⚖️ Key Principles from the Vienna Convention (VCLT)
- Article 26 – Pacta Sunt Servanda: Treaties must be performed in good faith.
- Article 31 – General Rule: Interpret according to ordinary meaning, context, and purpose.
- Article 32 – Supplementary Means: Use preparatory work and background if ambiguity exists.
- Article 33 – Multilingual Texts: All official languages are equally valid; context resolves differences.
For deeper analysis, read our post on the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.

🧭 The Three Main Approaches to Interpretation
Approach | Description | Used When |
---|---|---|
Textual | Focuses on exact wording | Primary under VCLT |
Subjective | Looks at the intention of negotiators | When preparatory work exists |
Teleological | Considers object and purpose | Ensures fairness and effectiveness |
🏛️ Judicial Interpretation of Tax Treaties
Each country’s courts interpret tax treaties based on their legal systems. Common law countries like Ghana and the UK rely on case law, while civil law countries like France follow strict statutory interpretation. Regardless, all apply Vienna Convention principles.
Conclusion
The Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties ensures that tax treaties are interpreted consistently, fairly, and in good faith. Understanding these principles helps students, tax practitioners, and businesses navigate international taxation confidently.
👉 Read next: Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties – Explained
Focus keyphrase: Interpretation of Tax Treaties
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