The free-market case against tax competition

Those who believe in the power of competition to produce optimal market outcomes tend to view taxation, regulation, and other forms of state intervention as hurdles to growth and prosperity. But by arguing in favour of “tax competition” amongst advanced economies, they are supporting a status quo that encourages monopoly. SIMON TILFORD* writes

LONDON: The global race to cut corporate tax rates accelerated in 2018. According to the OECD’s latest annual review of tax policies across developed economies, the average rate of taxation on corporate profits has fallen from 32.5% in 2000 to below 24% today.

This trend is understandable. With private-sector investment remaining stubbornly weak, governments are desperate to hold on to whatever piece of the pie they can.

Editor's Comment
Gov’t must rectify recognition of Khama as Kgosi

While it is widely acknowledged that Khama holds the title of Kgosi, the government’s failure to properly gazette his recognition has raised serious concerns about adherence to legal procedures and the credibility of traditional leadership. (See a story elsewhere in this newspaper.) Recent court documents by the Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, Kgotla Autlwetse, shed light on the intricacies of Khama’s recognition process....

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