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Contribution Details

Type Journal Article
Scope Discipline-based scholarship
Title Competition and welfare effects of VAT exemptions
Organization Unit
Authors
  • Helmut Max Dietl
  • Christian Jaag
  • Markus Lang
  • Urs Trinkner
Item Subtype Original Work
Refereed Yes
Status Published in final form
Language
  • English
Journal Title B.E. Journal of Economic Analysis & Policy
Publisher Berkeley Electronic Press
Geographical Reach international
ISSN 1935-1682
Volume 11
Number 1
Page Range 19
Date 2011
Abstract Text istortions under the value-added tax (VAT) arise partly from the exemption of specific services and sectors. This paper develops an analytical model that is applicable to any sector characterized by asymmetric VAT exemptions of services and activities. We analyze the effects of such asymmetric tax regimes on market shares, optimal prices, tax receipts, and social welfare. The analytical model shows how asymmetric VAT exemptions distort competition by strengthening the competitive position of non-rated firms. The net effect of such tax exemptions depends on the fraction of VAT-rated inputs versus the fraction of non-rated customers. We further elucidate main competitive impacts of VAT policies, while showing their consequences on overall welfare by presenting simulation results based on a calibrated quantitative model of a selected sector. Our paper provides guidance on how to resolve the policy trade-off between a level playing field in the market, consumer surplus, and government tax revenue.
Digital Object Identifier 10.2202/1935-1682.2855
Other Identification Number merlin-id:615
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Additional Information The Berkeley Electronic Press © 2010