Tax and the UN Sustainable Development Goals

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), as the world business organization, works to promote open, rules-based multi-lateral trade and investment, the market economy system, sustainable economic growth, responsible business conduct and a global approach to regulation. ICC supports business’ contribution to peace, prosperity and inclusive growth. In the area of taxation, ICC seeks to promote transparent and non-discriminatory treatment of foreign investments and earnings that eliminates tax obstacles to cross-border trade and investment.

ICC is an indispensable partner of intergovernmental organisations and international stakeholders in leveraging business engagement for a more sustainable world. In 2015 the United Nations (UN) General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), calling on all countries to improve the lives of people everywhere. A core aim of the SDGs is to eradicate poverty in all its forms and dimensions, recognizing that it is the greatest global challenge and is an indispensable requirement of sustainable development.1 Improving economic growth is a necessary driver to achieving this goal. ICC’s mission to promote a system of open, cross-border exchange for the benefit of society as a whole underlines the integral role that international business plays in fostering growth and development.

This ICC proposal will address how effective tax policy can facilitate economic growth, and in doing so, support the UN SDGs. The paper will highlight measures that would support trade growth and outline the potential risk areas that exist.