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Taxation |
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An aspect of fiscal policy |
A turnover tax is similar to VAT, with the difference that it taxes intermediate and possibly capital goods. It is an indirect tax, typically on an ad valorem basis, applicable to a production process or stage. For example, when manufacturing activity is completed, a tax may be charged on some companies. Sales tax occurs when merchandise has been sold.
In South Africa, the turnover tax is a simple tax on the gross income of small businesses. Businesses that elect to pay the turnover tax are exempt from VAT. Turnover tax is at a very low rate compared to most taxes but is without any deductions. [1]
In Ireland, turnover tax was introduced in 1963 [2] and followed by wholesale tax in 1966. [3] [4] Both were replaced in 1972 by VAT, [5] in preparation for Ireland's accession to the European Communities, which prohibited both taxes. [4] [6]