Why are countries discussing a global minimum corporate tax rate?

Big countries are talking about making sure all companies pay fair taxes, no matter where they are.

Imagine you and your friend both have lemonade stands. You live in the same neighborhood, but your friend moves to a place where they only have to pay 5 cents for every cup of lemonade they sell, instead of 10 cents like you do. That’s not fair! Your friend can save more money, maybe even buy bigger lemons or spend time playing video games.

This is what's happening with companies around the world. Some countries have lower tax rules, so big companies move there to pay less in taxes, just like your friend moved to a place with cheaper lemonade taxes. This makes other countries lose out on money they could use for schools, roads, or parks.

Now, some countries are saying: “We want everyone to pay at least 15 cents per cup of lemonade, no matter where they are.” That’s why they’re talking about a global minimum corporate tax rate. It makes sure companies can’t just run away to places with the cheapest taxes forever.

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Examples

  1. Imagine if your friend could move their candy to a different store to pay less tax, but you have to pay full price for the same candy.
  2. Big companies might move their money to countries with lower taxes to save more money.
  3. If all countries agree on a minimum tax rate, big companies can't avoid paying too little.

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