Taxing Information and Communication Technologies Actually Costs Money

According to a study by the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation (ITIF), imposing taxes on information and communication technologies (ICT) can actually cost countries more money that it raises. ICT is a driving force for productivity growth around the globe. Yet by imposing discriminatory tariffs and taxes on electronic and digital devices and services, many nations actually discourage ICT adoption by businesses and consumers.

The taxes are levied with the aim of increasing government revenues and/or protecting domestic ICT producers, a move that is actually counterproductive. MORE