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VAT credit refunds and firm productivity: Evidence from China's VAT reform

Author

Listed:
  • Liu, Lihua
  • Cao, Lele
  • Cao, Yuqiang
  • Lu, Meiting
  • Shan, Yaowen

Abstract

This study exploits the implementation of the value-added tax (VAT) credit refund policy in China as an exogenous shock to examine the policy's impact on firm productivity. We find that pilot firms' total factor productivity increases significantly following the implementation of the tax reform due to higher operating cash flow, increased innovation incentives, and improved human capital investment in highly educated labor. Further tests show that the effect of the VAT credit refund policy is more pronounced among large firms, manufacturing firms, firms with strong financing constraints, and those located in regions with low levels of marketization and financial development. Our results provide novel evidence regarding the economic benefits of the VAT credit refund policy, and highlight its role in fostering firm productivity and economic growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Lihua & Cao, Lele & Cao, Yuqiang & Lu, Meiting & Shan, Yaowen, 2024. "VAT credit refunds and firm productivity: Evidence from China's VAT reform," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 93(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finana:v:93:y:2024:i:c:s1057521924001030
    DOI: 10.1016/j.irfa.2024.103171
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    Keywords

    Value-added tax; Credit refunds; Firm productivity; China;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H11 - Public Economics - - Structure and Scope of Government - - - Structure and Scope of Government
    • H25 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Business Taxes and Subsidies
    • H30 - Public Economics - - Fiscal Policies and Behavior of Economic Agents - - - General

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