Will Corporate Tax Consolidation Improve Efficiency in the EU?
Author: Albert van der Horst
Publisher:
Published: 2007
Total Pages: 98
ISBN-13:
DOWNLOAD EBOOKConsolidation of the tax base in the European Union is expected to curve compliance costs and reduce prodit shifting. A number of proposals for consolidation from the European Commission are simulated wirh the aplied general equilibrim model CORTAX. We show that benefits from consolidation are offset by two weaknesses in theproposals for a common consolidated tax base. Formula apportionment, which is neede to allocate the cosolidated taxable profits across jurisdiction, creates new tax planning possibilities for MNEs and allows them to benefit from existing tax rate differentials in the European Union. In addition, it triggers tax competition as member states may attract foreign investment by reducing their tax rates. the socond distorition is an unlevel playing field, which is introduced if only part of the firm participate in the consolidation. The gains from consolidation can be fully grasped if it is obliged for all firms and is it is accompanied by a harmonisation of the tax rate.