GLTN Publications

Property Taxation for Developing Economies

Fundamental to the development of economic and social opportunities for communities is the effective and efficient provision of basic public services. However, these need to be paid for, normally by a levy on the local population. In many places, such taxes are not levied, largely, because the resources considered necessary are absent.
This FIG report discusses a tried and tested property tax system based on available resources and data sets rather than a “wish list”. Two examples of such a system currently in operation are discussed and it is suggested that other countries can adapt these principles into a property tax system which reflects their individual needs and resources.