Real VATs vs the Good VAT: Reflections from a Decade of Technical Assistance

Abstract

This article explores the distinction between real value‑added taxes (VATs) and the good VAT in developing countries. The article draws on real‑world examples from a decade of work on technical assistance and international projects in Africa, the Caribbean, Central and South America, Central Asia, the Middle East and Persian Gulf regions. It reviews several problem areas that illustrate the depth of the divide between real VATs and the good VAT: first, the “big‑4” issues; second, situations when policy and administration clash; and third, situations in which coordination between agencies breaks down. “Big‑4” issues involve problems that plague many VATs in developing (and developed) countries: exemptions; non‑export zero rating; multiple rates; and unsuitable thresholds. Frontier issues (real property, financial services, and imported services and e‑commerce) also sharply highlight the disconnection between policy wishes and administrative realities in developing countries. Tax policy and administration often clash in the areas of registration and segmentation, VAT withholding, handling of refunds, and the failure to generally apply the statutory provisions of the VAT law and regulations. Coordination problems often arise between government agencies or ministries. Areas of conflict include: discretionary waivers; tax incentives; para‑fiscal levies; coordination of import duties, excises and VAT; and (last but not least) data integration between customs and domestic tax administrations. The conclusion sets out some ideas on the challenges for VAT to move forward.