National Tax Research Articles

The macroeconomic overview of the alcohol industry: a perspective from the emerging market of Asia

Purpose This study aims to analyze the relationship between the alcohol brewing industry and the macroeconomic variables of the emerging market of Asia. Design/methodology/approach The study uses secondary data for the period of 32 years and applies the autoregressive distributed lag-error correction method (ARDL-ECM) approach to understand short- and long-run dynamics in the alcohol industry by considering macroeconomic variables. Findings The findings of the study confirm the existence of a long-run relationship between the alcohol brewing industry and the macroeconomic variables considered for this study. Research limitations/implications The authors present a few limitations of this study. First, this study uses secondary data originating from one of the emerging markets of Asia. Second, the study is solely conducted from an economic perspective rather than from a social or health perspective. Finally, the study considers the data originating from the organized sector of the alcohol industry of India. Practical implications The study will be helpful to the researchers in guiding the future course of research in the area of the alcohol industry. This study can be helpful to the policymakers in framing the National Alcohol and taxation Policy. This study also helps both the producers and exporters to strategize sustainable production and trade of alcoholic beverages. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first of its kind to analyze the alcohol industry from the macroeconomic perspective through the ARDL-ECM approach.

Digital tax reform in Indonesia: Perspective on tax policy development

In Indonesia tax reform has undergone multiple revisions in recent years, all within a brief timeframe. Digital tax reform in Indonesia began with significant milestones in recent years to adapt to the digital economy’s challenges. The specific start date for digital tax reform in Indonesia can be traced back to the passing of the Tax Regulations Harmonization Law on 7th October 2021, which officially became Law No 7/2021 on 29th October 2021. This law marked a crucial step in Indonesia’s journey towards modernizing its tax system to address the implications of the digital economy. The provisions of this law have varying effective dates, such as for income tax purposes from the 2022 fiscal year and for VAT purposes from 1st April 2022. These changes under the Tax Regulations Harmonization Law are extensive and wide-reaching, signifying a pivotal moment in Indonesia’s digital tax reform efforts. This shows that the Indonesian government intends to radically overhaul the tax system, yet there are inconsistent approaches to deciding on the long-term course of tax policy. It is critical to investigate the concept of tax legislation in Indonesia in order to provide legal clarity on digital tax reform. Normative juridical research methodology is employed, together with a qualitative research strategy and descriptive-analytical research specifications. The findings suggest that the Indonesian government’s efforts to establish strict policies governing taxes on digital activity are inadequate and uneven. In order to apply to digital platform enterprises, the definition of permanent establishment as outlined in a number of national regulations must incorporate a substantial economic presence criterion. Legislative progress toward the establishment of a framework for digital tax collection is necessary to mitigate the possible income loss of states in this area, which could result from the rapid advancement of information technology. The OECD consensus is still in the process of drafting an international tax reform that will require adjustments from national tax reform. Therefore, it is imperative that the Indonesian government establish a thorough framework for tax regulation that can ensure robustness, economic efficiency, fairness, against motivation compatibility, administrative ease, and avoidance.

The effects of long–distance power transmission on employment growth: Empirical evidence from ultra–high voltage projects of China

Long–distance power transmission is a crucial solution for alleviating the uneven distribution of energy and promoting economic development. This work is the first to provide an estimate of the benefits to employment of long–distance power transmission. Using unique data from the China National Tax Survey Database for the years 2007–2016, we utilized ultra–high voltage (UHV) project of China as an exogenous shock to investigate how long–distance power transmission affects firms' labor demand by employing the difference–in–differences method. We found that the UHV system significantly increased firms' labor demand. A mechanism analysis suggested that the UHV system did this mainly by facilitating firm entry and expanding firm production scale. A heterogeneity analysis indicated that, compared with provinces with low grid reliability and grid capacity, firms in provinces with high grid reliability and grid capacity exhibited a stronger response to the UHV system in terms of labor demand. Our research findings provide a new solution for countries to balance resource distribution, energy transition, and employment growth.

The single tax in Ukraine: reform or repeal

The institution of a simplified taxation system provided for in the tax system of Ukraine is characterized by permanent variability, which is always aimed at achieving an optimal balance between national interests (reduction of the shadow economy sector; attracting funds to budgets; reducing the level of tax administration costs; preventing the use of simplified taxation system in minimization schemes; etc.) and individual interests of taxpayers (reducing the tax burden; promoting the competitiveness of taxpayers; improving the convenience of paying taxes; minimizing the amount of tax reporting; etc.). Since the introduction of the simplified taxation system, it has been significantly transformed and, compared to 1998, is qualitatively better. Despite this, discussions in political and scientific circles about the need to take steps to further modify this special tax regime, up to its complete abolition, do not stop. The article considers the National Revenue Strategy until 2030 approved by the supreme executive body of Ukraine, which defines a medium-term roadmap for reforming tax policy and tax administration in Ukraine. The article outlines the main principles that should be followed in modernizing the national simplified taxation system and considers the goals that the state seeks to achieve through the practical implementation of the approved strategy. The author describes in detail the key measures envisaged by this national strategy for reforming the simplified taxation system, including in the context of Europeanization of the tax system of Ukraine, and points out the uncertainty of certain elements of these measures, which leads to complications in the tax planning process for entities. The author concludes that the approved national strategy, which is aimed at approximating the national tax policy and tax legislation of Ukraine to the provisions of the European Union legislation, provides for depriving legal entities (including agricultural producers) of the right to tax their income with a single tax, and defines measures to tighten the requirements for single tax payers (individual entrepreneurs) and increase their tax burden.

The “Broken” Fixed Establishment Concept

The fight to balance national budgets in the European Union has seen more aggressive interpretations of the VAT legislation by national tax authorities. The existence of the “fixed establishment” is an easy fight to pick. Given the unwillingness of the European Commission to provide substantive guidance, interpretation of the FE concept has been left to the ECJ. The author in this article examines the angle whereby the human and technical resources used by one group company in supplying services to another group company, are considered by tax authorities to constitute the FE of that latter company. In doing so, the author analyses the latest case from the ECJ and explains why the judgment should definitively close the door to such practices.

Can technological progress abate the negative impact of low carbon policies on economic growth in China?

ABSTRACT Whether technological progress can provide a complementary solution that reduces the economic costs of carbon pricing policies, thereby accomplishing a win-win situation for carbon abatement and economic growth? By developing an improved multi-regional dynamic CGE model that integrates investment adjustment costs into the capital accumulation equation, this study provides a lens through which to evaluate the collective impacts of the national carbon market, carbon tax, and technology progress in China. The findings confirm the substantial potential of carbon pricing policies to curtail CO 2 emissions, highlighting their critical role in climate change mitigation. Yet, it also exposes a trade-off, where these policies might impact GDP growth and exports, necessitating a balanced approach to policy design. The outputs of energy sectors are particularly vulnerable to carbon pricing policies, indicating a need for tailored strategies to support these industries in their transition towards sustainability. The study uncovers that the fusion of carbon pricing policies with technological progress can enhance carbon abatement efforts while softening the economic blow, illuminating a path to sustainable development that balances environmental and economic imperatives.

The Impact of Tax Pressure on Long-Term Economic Growth in Morocco

Despite the tax reform in the 1980s, the Moroccan tax system still suffers from structural vulnerabilities that have led to inefficient tax policies and increasing sectoral disparities, which have led to an increase in the tax pressure rates between 1990 and 2020. To overcome these vulnerabilities, and according to the recommendations of the 2019 National Tax Conference, the Moroccan tax system has been recently restructured, with the aim of strengthening the principles of equity and tax efficiency. The main objective of this paper is to determine the impact of the tax pressure on long-term economic growth in Morocco from 1990 to 2020. To do so, the methodology adopted in this work consists of verifying the effect of the tax pressure on economic growth through a quantitative methodology based on two vector autoregression approaches: the vector autoregression model (VAR) and the vector error correction model (VECM). The results of this study confirm that the effect of fiscal pressure on economic growth in Morocco is not significant in the long run, and therefore, we can deduce that taxation is not yet a well-mastered instrument for the state to act on the economic sphere. The results show a complex relationship between tax pressures and economic growth in Morocco, underlining the importance of tax reform. However, the research is limited by the specific models and the need to explore other determinants. The contribution of this paper lies in its in-depth empirical analysis of fiscal pressure and its influence on long-term economic growth in Morocco, as based on VAR and VECM modeling. This econometric approach makes it possible to isolate the dynamic effects and responses of economic variables over time, offering an understanding of the interactions between tax policy and long-term economic growth. By focusing specifically on the Moroccan context, this study offers an original perspective and helps to fill the gap in the empirical research in this area while providing a valuable analytical framework for assessing fiscal policies and their impact on long-term economic growth.

Unlocking the potential of inventory management: Integrating digital transformation with firm practices

Digitalization has brought a substantial economic impact on firms' production and operation. This study utilizes firm-level data from the China National Tax Statistics Database to investigate the impact of the Broadband China Strategy on firms’ inventory levels, which are an important strategic resource for firms. We find that Internet access and development result in a sharp decrease in inventory levels, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises. Furthermore, digital infrastructure can mitigate the negative effects of an insufficient supply of transportation infrastructure. This paper also shows that the enhancements in inventory management are attributable to the increased adoption and improved affordability of broadband Internet among firms. We discuss the role of inventory, providing a thorough understanding of the logic behind the enhanced productivity improvements brought about by digitalization.

THE EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL TAXES ON CARBON EMISSIONS: A STUDY ON SELECT EU MEMBER STATES

This study investigates the effects that national income, public expenditures, research and development (R&D) investments, and environmental taxes (ET) have on carbon emissions. The variables of national income, the square of national income, public expenditures, R&D, total ET, transport taxes, and energy taxes are used in conjunction with carbon emission data for this analysis. Three distinct models are used herein: Model 1 employs the total ET, model 2 utilises transport taxes, and model 3 makes use of energy taxes. A Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality analysis was employed to investigate the relationship between the variables, which demonstrates that there was a Granger causality from national income, the square of national income, and public expenditures to carbon emissions. However, there was no Granger causality from R&D expenditures to carbon emissions. Finally, there was a one-way Granger causality relationship from total ET, transport taxes, and energy taxes used as ET to carbon emissions. Therefore, this study concludes that R&D investments are important for the development of environmentally friendly production structures and for increasing the importance of these structures in the economy. Finally, the findings emphasise that ET in particular can be effective in reducing carbon emissions within the framework of the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement

Globalization and taxation: Implications on national tax policies and international tax competition

This review examines the profound impact of globalization on national tax policies and the ensuing tax competition among countries. Globalization, characterized by increased economic integration and cross-border capital and labor mobility, has significantly influenced national tax structures and policies. Countries are compelled to adapt their tax systems to remain competitive in attracting and retaining investments, leading to a shift from traditional income taxes to consumption-based taxes and adjustments in corporate tax rates. This competition often results in a "race to the bottom," where countries continuously lower tax rates to outbid each other, thereby affecting government revenues and public service funding. The review explores how globalization erodes traditional tax bases, creating challenges for national policymakers who must balance the need for competitiveness with revenue requirements and equity considerations. Through case studies, the effects of tax competition are analyzed, highlighting the outcomes of various national strategies in attracting global capital. Additionally, the role of international tax treaties and agreements in shaping global taxation dynamics is scrutinized. Treaties aimed at avoiding double taxation and preventing tax evasion, such as those orchestrated by the OECD’s Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) initiative, and EU tax policies, are pivotal in harmonizing tax rules and reducing tax arbitrage opportunities. These agreements foster international cooperation, attempting to create a more stable and fair global tax environment. The interaction between national tax policies and global agreements is complex, involving coordination and occasional conflict. The effectiveness of these international efforts in addressing the challenges posed by globalization is assessed, considering both successes and limitations. Emerging trends, such as the taxation of the digital economy and the increasing involvement of developing countries in global tax discussions, are also explored. The review provides insights into the dynamic interplay between globalization and taxation, offering recommendations for policymakers to navigate the intricate global tax landscape. Future challenges and opportunities are discussed, emphasizing the need for continued international cooperation and adaptive national policies. Keywords: Globalization, National Tax Policies, Tax Competition.

Intellectual property related crimes in 2013

The author provides an overview of the investigative framework and statistics of IP-related crimes in 2013 in Hungary. The assessment is particularly timely, as investigative competences have been transferred to the National Tax and Customs Administration from the Police in 2011.

Digital infrastructure expansion and carbon intensity of small enterprises: Evidence from China

While the growth of digital infrastructure theoretically offers increased opportunities for enterprises, the policy implications may vary depending on the firm size. We utilize the pilot policy of the Broadband China Strategy as an exogenous shock for firms and adopt a unique dataset from the National Tax Survey to investigate the impact of digital infrastructure expansion on the carbon intensity of small enterprises. The results indicate that digital infrastructure expansion leads to a notable increase of 9.04% in small firm's carbon intensity. These results exhibit resilience, withstanding rigorous testing through various robustness checks. This increase is primarily attributed to two channels: the competition effect, which results in a decline in small firm's output, and the change in energy structure, which leads to an increase in small firm's carbon emissions. Heterogeneity analysis reveals a more pronounced increase for small enterprises located in regions with less stringent environmental regulations and in industries with higher degree of market concentration. Our conclusion suggests that the government should pay attention to the survival and development of small enterprises. This entails ensuring fair market competition on digital platforms and preventing the dominant enterprises from abusing their information advantages to jeopardize the interests of small enterprises.

Challenges Faced by The Chemical Industry in Strengthening the Bioeconomy in Brazil

Objective: This study aims to discuss the chemical industry's role in developing new bioeconomic systems in Brazil. Theoretical Framework: The bioeconomy provides significant opportunities for Brazil. By exploring the country's biodiversity and environmental resources, bioeconomic systems can drive the development of innovative technologies and high-value products across various sectors. Additionally, the bioeconomy plays a crucial role in generating quality employment and preserving ecosystems. Achieving this optimistic scenario depends on the efforts of the Brazilian chemical industry in research and development (R&D). Method: This research is documental and descriptive. We reviewed several sectoral reports focusing on the obstacles to using renewable inputs from Brazilian biodiversity in the chemical sector's value chains. Results and Discussion: Brazil's bioeconomy systems face limited R&D investments due to structural bottlenecks related to the national tax system, logistical infrastructure, and high energy costs. These issues have reduced the competitiveness of the Brazilian chemical industry. Furthermore, increased imports of Chinese chemical products following the Ukraine War and the subsequent industry idleness can exacerbate these structural constraints and further erode the chemical sector's R&D funds. Research Implications: The structural problems described in this article can delay the development of renewable energy sources and innovative bioproducts. Originality/Value: We show that the chemical industry possesses the technology and scale necessary to integrate into Federal Government programs in the bioeconomy field. However, the sector's structural problems and low R&D investments tend to inhibit the development of new bioeconomic systems. Brazil must overcome these challenges to establish itself as a global bioeconomy powerhouse.

Monitoring of the BEPs actions plan implementation in the context of fiscal regulation: scientific substantiation of the methodology

Since January 2017, Ukraine has joined the OECD's Inclusive Framework and committed itself to implementing the BEPS Minimum Standard. The national tax system is similar in structure to the tax systems of developed countries. At the same time, the country's recognition of generally accepted standards for combating aggressive tax planning requires significant adaptation of the legal framework. Monitoring of the legislative process of implementing the BEPS Action Plan is an important area of further development of state regulation in the tax area and an effective means of achieving the proper quality of tax legislation and creating a modern and efficient tax system. The regulatory assessment of the state of national legislation will facilitate a detailed understanding and analysis of possible positive effects, achievement of results in the fight against tax evasion and base erosion, and avoidance of legal conflicts and contradictions. Monitoring the legislative process of implementing the BEPS Action Plan measures allows us to identify the necessary areas for improving the national legislative system and track the positive and negative effects of the application of legislative norms. Monitoring of regulatory legal acts is a tool for the development of future-oriented legislation, as it involves the study of legislation to obtain information necessary for assessing, forecasting, controlling and formulating recommendations for improving the regulatory framework and ensuring its optimal condition. As a member of the OECD Inclusive Framework, Ukraine has implemented the BEPS Action Plan Minimum Standard through significant adaptation of the national tax legislation and its approximation to the provisions of international tax instruments. Monitoring of the legislative process of implementing the BEPS Action Plan is an important area of development of state regulation in the tax area and an effective means of achieving the proper quality of national tax legislation and further development of an effective tax system.

Research on Tax Collection and Administration Efficiency in the Context of “Governing Taxation by Numbers”

In modern national governance systems, tax collection and administration efficiency is a key indicator to measure the performance of the tax system. With the proposal and implementation of the concept of “governing taxation through numbers”, how to use digital technology to improve tax collection and administration efficiency has become an important issue. Focusing on the background of the policy of “governing taxation by numbers”, this article selects Anhui Province as a case area to conduct an in-depth analysis of the impact of the policy of “governing taxation by numbers” on the efficiency of tax collection and administration in practical applications, and explores strategies to improve tax collection and administration efficiency, aiming to optimize Provide theoretical and practical reference for tax management, improving tax compliance and reducing collection costs.

Political Economy of Tax and Digital Transformations in Pakistan (Special Invited Lecture)

1. THE NEED FOR A COORDINATED TAX AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH STRATEGY I The 1985 National Tax Reform Commission (NTC) recommended a coordinated set of policies on tax policy, administration, and digital transformation to take the tax/GDP ratio from around 14 percent as it was then, to 20 percent by 1990, to underpin a sustainable growth path. The interim report of the NTC called the CBR “the most corrupt of Pakistani institutions.” The final report paid a great deal of attention to the interrelationships between tax evasion, smuggling and corruption. 1 The report emphasised a coordinated approach to reforming all taxes and administration, and that a tax-by-tax approach with tax administration determined separately would not do. Unfortunately, the report was shelved as Pakistan extracted geographic rents from the war against the Soviets in Afghanistan. While the NTC could not have imagined that the tax/GDP ratio would decline after three decades of interactions and support from the IFIs, that the country would find itself on the brink of default consequently, or the depths to which rent-seeking and corruption might plumb. A coordinated approach to multilevel tax policy and administration should also address key political economy challenges if Pakistan is to overcome the current economic crisis and move towards resilient and sustainable growth in the medium term. This is especially critical given the unprecedented “perfect storm” of the pandemic, climate shocks and once in a century floods, and ongoing disruptions in global value chains. The contrast with India is striking. With a general government tax/GDP ratio well above “the tipping point” of around 15 percent, India has been able to run a greater general deficit and much higher overall debt level than Pakistan (see Table 1 and Chart 1), without running into a potential debt crisis. It is important to stress that India by a Constitutional Amendment to harmonise the VAT across subnational jurisdictions has begun to address faults inherited from the pernicious 1935 Government of India Act, that still influences revenue assignments in Pakistan. The increasing geo-political importance of India, and the country’s greater resilience and attractiveness for FDI provide important contrasts and lessons for policy makers in Pakistan.

AS THE IMPOVERISHED GET EVEN POORER: AN ANALYSIS ON THE IMPACT OF PHILIPPINE TRAIN LAW TO THE MINIMUM WAGE EARNER

In the Philippines, the TRAIN Law or tax reform for acceleration and inclusion legislation was put into effect in 2018. This law sought to significantly alter the nation's tax structure in order to increase money for poverty alleviation, healthcare, and infrastructure. One of the features of the law was to increase the income threshold below which minimum wage earners would not be required to pay income tax. But it also resulted in higher costs for goods and services, which had an effect on Metro Manila's level of living. This qualitative research examines the significant data and information based on the participant's experiences with the TRAIN law. Semi-structured questions were used in the in-depth interview to facilitate deeper clarification and additional discussion. The results show that the majority of the impact of the law on the poor is related to basic needs like food, for which they must cut their budget in order to survive because there are other expenses to consider, such as utility bills and debts. Moreover, it impacts an individual's emotional and overall health, including mental health concerns brought on by financial difficulties. Additionally, it has an impact on their social interaction because they tend to engage with others less frequently because they are preoccupied with the things that need significant financial outlays. Thus, it may be inferred that the poor income class households' standard of living declined with the introduction of TRAIN law. KEYWORDS: tax reform law, poverty alleviation, minimum wage earner

Too good to be true! Paid parental leave for 5 years

Research methodology This case study is built from secondary data such as news articles, regulations and videos. Several drafts of the case study with a teaching note were tested in the classroom setting and shared in a case writing conference. The case was revised based on feedback from students and roundtable discussions from the conference. Case overview/synopsis Mrs Hsu, the Deputy Director of the National Taxation Bureau’s Nantou County Branch in Taiwan, faced a dilemma in June 2021. One of her employees, Mrs Chiang, had requested to return to work after taking several years of parental leave since August 2017. This long absence had put a strain on colleagues, who either had to cover for her or work with temporary replacements. While Mrs Chiang’s actions were legal and protected by her government employee role, her decision to take another leave immediately after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine raised eyebrows. Her peers accused her of using her frontline worker status to gain early vaccine access and other work benefits. Mrs Hsu, upon reviewing Mrs Chiang’s employment history, pondered her next steps concerning Mrs Chiang’s new leave request. Complexity academic level This case would be appropriate for a course in Human Resource Management, Organizational Behavior or Gender, Family and Work, especially with the topic of Employment Rights/Legal Protections (in HR), and/or Justice and Ethics (in OB).

Affordability of cigarettes in ten Southeastern European countries between 2008 and 2019

BackgroundThe empirical evidence shows that tobacco consumption is strongly associated with its affordability. The nominal growth in tobacco prices imposed by taxation should exceed or at least keep pace with...

Совершенствование налоговой политики России в сфере международного налогообложения

Given the need for the Russian Federation to adapt to sanctions and increase its resilience to new challenges, there is an urgent need to improve tax policy in the sphere of international taxation. This article proposes several conceptual approaches to protecting Russia's tax interests and ensuring its sovereign rights in the international tax sphere. In this regard, the authors conduct an empirical assessment of the consequences for Russia of foreign initiatives to distribute global profits between jurisdictions in the context of the country’s limited participation in traditional information exchange. The assessment addressed the areas of international exchange of tax information and procedures for resolving international tax disputes. The authors suggest measures to counter the erosion of the national tax base in the context of limited cooperation and collaboration in tax administration. Once we have clarified the current multilateral and bilateral international tax treaties with states that have not imposed sanctions on Russia, we will be able to assess the country's attractiveness to investors from these countries and understand the practical implications of the findings.