"Tax breaks are not the magic wand for attracting foreign investment," asserts Professor Attiya Waris, challenging the conventional wisdom that has shaped economic policies across the Global South for decades. In a candid conversation that peeled back layers of misconception surrounding international tax policy, Professor Waris offered a fresh perspective on the true dynamics of global investment decisions.
The dialogue began by addressing the veil of secrecy that often shrouds tax agreements between nations and corporations. "I only get to hear about them through leakages," Professor Waris revealed, highlighting the critical lack of transparency that hinders public understanding and scholarly analysis of these crucial economic arrangements.
A key point of discussion was the widespread practice of offering tax breaks to multinational corporations. Professor Waris argued that this approach stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of taxation's role in society. Rather than viewing taxes as a burden, she posited that they should be seen as a fair contribution for the use of a country's infrastructure and resources.
The conversation highlighted a critical misconception in economic policy. For decades, countries in the Global South were advised that tax incentives were necessary to remain competitive in attracting foreign investment. However, Professor Waris revealed that recent research challenges this notion. Studies indicate that tax considerations rank relatively low among factors influencing corporate investment decisions, often falling behind issues such as political stability and corruption levels.
Professor Waris also touched on the historical context of tax expertise in Africa, noting her position as the continent's first fiscal law professor. This observation sparked a reflection on the gradual development of specialized legal expertise across various fields in post-colonial Africa.
The dialogue underscored the importance of evidence-based policymaking in international taxation. By critically examining the true motivations behind foreign investment and the actual impact of tax incentives, countries may be better positioned to develop strategies that genuinely serve their economic interests and support sustainable development.
As global economic landscapes continue to evolve, Professor Waris's insights invite a reevaluation of traditional approaches to tax policy and foreign investment. This conversation serves as a catalyst for further research and debate on creating equitable and effective tax systems in the Global South.
