Hans said that such a tax could also “be a brake on growth in the digital sector”. With a view to the considerable profits that the online retailer Amazon, for example, is making because of the corona pandemic, Hans emphasized, however: “I am absolutely in favor of business that is done in Germany ultimately being subject to German tax liability.”
Technology giants in their sights
A digital tax is primarily intended to target large technology companies that earn billions in the EU but, according to critics, pay too few taxes in individual markets. So far, profits have been taxed where the foreign company has its permanent establishment.
However, the introduction of a digital tax is “not a very easy thing,” said Hans. This question must be tackled “at the OECD level and, if this is ultimately not achievable, at the European level”. “Anything else would be unrealistic. Those are thick boards that you have to drill. ”
Hans: Corporations get more involved
Hans said large corporations with an international focus would have to be “more involved” in tax revenue. However, online trading does not have to take place on a single large foreign platform that may not pay taxes anywhere in the world.
Even small and medium-sized companies that have previously been active in stationary retail in Germany could counter this crisis with an online, order, pick-up or delivery offer. He would like consumers to “think a little more about where they consume and where they shop.”
The SR radio news from December 25, 2020 also reported on this topic.
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