E-invoices not intended for taxation

The country's new policy to promote the use of online electronic invoicing is not aimed at preparing for e-commerce taxation, the State Administration of Taxation said in a statement posted on its website Tuesday, in an attempt to assuage concerns that consumers may ultimately foot the bill for higher costs as a result.

The management rules for online invoices taking effect from April 1 are intended to help prevent illegal use of invoices, as low-cost online invoicing enables easier authentication checks compared to traditional printed invoices, said the statement.