The impact of tax incentives to stimulate investment in South Africa

Stellenbosch Working Paper Series No. WP19/2013
 
Publication date: 2013
 
Author(s):
[protected email address] (Department of Economics, University of Stellenbosch)
[protected email address] (Department of Economics, Georgia State University)
[protected email address] (Department of Economics, University of Stellenbosch)
 
Abstract:

The purpose of this paper is, very generally, to provide a framework and potential methodology of analysis of tax incentives in one country — South Africa. As incentives are often specific and targeted, the precise methods needed to analyse the effectiveness of incentives may well differ among types of incentives. However, by positing a framework for evaluation based on basic economic principles, we believe that transparency, accountability and rigorous evaluation of individual incentives or regarding the choice of incentives may be enhanced. A classification of different tax incentives is provided, with reference to their acceptability in the economic literature and with an indication of their occurrence in South Africa. The cost of tax incentives to manufacturing in South Africa is estimated by sector of economic activity, indicating a sizeable drain on the national budget, and a multiplier analysis of current tax incentives is undertaken.

 
JEL Classification:

H2, H25, H3

Keywords:

South African tax incentives, Investment incentives, tax policy, tax incentives, tax expenditure

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