Apple paid $17bn in taxes to Ireland last year

Apple paid $17 billion in taxes to Ireland last year, comprising 40% of its global tax contributions. This payment was boosted by a €13 billion back tax ordered by the EU’s top court after ruling that Ireland offered "unlawful aid" to Apple.

Ireland's low corporate tax rate of 12.5% attracted many companies, allowing profit routing via the abolished "double Irish" structure. A significant portion of Apple’s global profits were booked in Ireland, where it employs about 5,575 people.

New EU disclosures have sparked debates over corporate tax contributions, with Apple emphasizing that its reported taxes differ from consumption taxes. Similar tax breakdowns are expected from Australia and new U.S. rules.