Economy: The end of tax havens for the super-rich? The G20 takes action.

The G20 finance ministers, meeting in Rio de Janeiro, took a symbolic step by committing to cooperate to more effectively tax the super-rich. This decision, although in its infancy, marks a turning point in the fight against global inequalities.

Unprecedented tax cooperation in perspective

For the first time in its history, the G20 officially recognizes the need to reform the taxation of the wealthiest. This position reflects an awareness of the harmful effects of inequalities on economic growth and social cohesion.

The ministers emphasized the negative impact of these disparities on economic growth and social cohesion.

The declaration adopted in Rio commits member countries to “cooperate to ensure that very wealthy people are effectively taxed“. Although non-binding, this initiative paves the way for the exchange of best practices and the development of mechanisms to combat tax evasion.

Despite this progress, there are still many disagreements over the concrete implementation methods. The United States and Germany, in particular, oppose the idea of a global minimum tax on large fortunes, advocated by Brazil. Washington considers that taxation is primarily a matter of national sovereignty.

Other countries, such as France, South Africa, and Spain, on the other hand, support a more ambitious approach. These divergences reflect the complexity of reconciling national interests and international cooperation on tax matters.

G20, towards a restructuring of tax systems?

Increased taxation of the ultra-rich is seen as a means to mobilize resources to face global challenges. Kristalina Georgieva, director of the IMF, highlights the importance of “rebuilding budget reserves while addressing social and development needs“.

This approach could notably contribute to funding the fight against climate change. According to Camila Jardim from Greenpeace, “it is outrageous to expect the ordinary taxpayer to pay for this, while the super-rich evade tax“.

Economist Gabriel Zucman, author of a report on the subject, sees in this declaration a first step towards a restructuring of taxation systems. He calls for going further by establishing “coordinated minimum standards” at the international level.

This development could mark the beginning of a fiscal rebalancing in favor of greater progressivity. However, its realization will depend on the political will of the states and their ability to overcome technical and diplomatic obstacles.