Effect of productive capacities on tax revenue mobilization: Evidence from Sub‐Saharan African countries

Abstract

This paper analyzes the effects of productive capacities on tax revenue mobilization in 37 Sub‐Saharan African countries. Using the Generalized Method of Moment (GMM) approach, the results show that productive capacities measured by the aggregate Productive Capacity Index (PCI) and its eight components, namely human and natural capital, energy, transport, Information and communication technologies, private sector, institutions and structural change positively and significantly affect total tax revenue mobilization. For example, an increase in one point of the PCI corresponds to an increase in total tax revenues by 0.0016 point. The effect of productive capacities also remains positive and significant on tax revenues, even when disaggregated into direct and indirect taxes. This paper contributes empirically to highlighting the importance of productive capacity in tax revenue mobilization. Hence, strengthening productive capacities is important to enhance tax revenue mobilization in Sub‐Saharan African countries. To meet the current challenges of mobilizing the fiscal resources needed to meet international agendas, Sub‐Saharan African countries must not only work to strengthen overall productive capacity, but also promote the quality of institutions, transport and energy, invest in human capital, create the conditions for real structural transformation, promote good digital governance and a more dynamic private sector.