Tax Burden (% of GDP) 2024
Tax Burden measures the proportion of GDP collected by governments as taxes, influencing economic freedom.
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Complete Data Rankings
Rank | Actions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Lesotho | 35.419 % | |
2 | Namibia | 33.872 % | |
3 | Denmark | 33.358 % | |
4 | New Zealand | 29.521 % | |
5 | Luxembourg | 28.637 % | |
6 | China, Macao SAR | 27.416 % | |
7 | Greece | 27.381 % | |
8 | Sweden | 27.226 % | |
9 | United Kingdom | 26.889 % | |
10 | South Africa | 25.878 % | |
11 | Austria | 25.78 % | |
12 | Italy | 25.605 % | |
13 | Finland | 25.328 % | |
14 | Netherlands | 25.276 % | |
15 | Norway | 24.542 % | |
16 | Georgia | 24.258 % | |
17 | Malta | 24.078 % | |
18 | Fiji | 23.946 % | |
19 | Cyprus | 23.942 % | |
20 | Solomon Islands | 23.274 % | |
21 | Israel | 23.242 % | |
22 | Belgium | 22.96 % | |
23 | France | 22.778 % | |
24 | Hungary | 22.743 % | |
25 | Estonia | 22.668 % | |
26 | Armenia | 22.366 % | |
27 | Portugal | 22.347 % | |
28 | Lithuania | 21.869 % | |
29 | Mozambique | 21.846 % | |
30 | El Salvador | 21.796 % | |
31 | Nauru | 21.42 % | |
32 | Ukraine | 21.018 % | |
33 | Slovenia | 20.985 % | |
34 | Bulgaria | 20.672 % | |
35 | Mauritius | 20.532 % | |
36 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 20.221 % | |
37 | Nicaragua | 20.09 % | |
38 | Kyrgyzstan | 19.615 % | |
39 | Slovakia | 19.142 % | |
40 | Zambia | 18.83 % | |
41 | North Macedonia | 18.757 % | |
42 | Burkina Faso | 18.683 % | |
43 | Czech Republic | 18.648 % | |
44 | Chile | 18.265 % | |
45 | Albania | 18.015 % | |
46 | Ireland | 17.942 % | |
47 | Uruguay | 17.862 % | |
48 | Latvia | 17.647 % | |
49 | Turkey | 17.624 % | |
50 | Azerbaijan | 17.301 % | |
51 | Bahamas | 17.281 % | |
52 | Mongolia | 16.855 % | |
53 | Romania | 16.206 % | |
54 | Malawi | 15.598 % | |
55 | Andorra | 15.569 % | |
56 | Papua New Guinea | 15.544 % | |
57 | Brazil | 15.41 % | |
58 | Colombia | 15.22 % | |
59 | Thailand | 15.175 % | |
60 | Spain | 14.934 % | |
61 | Mexico | 14.824 % | |
62 | Dominican Republic | 14.703 % | |
63 | Philippines | 14.37 % | |
64 | Canada | 13.715 % | |
65 | Singapore | 13.56 % | |
66 | Costa Rica | 13.46 % | |
67 | South Korea | 13.294 % | |
68 | Belarus | 13.039 % | |
69 | Tanzania | 12.74 % | |
70 | Uganda | 12.626 % | |
71 | Malaysia | 12.43 % | |
72 | Guatemala | 11.63 % | |
73 | Paraguay | 11.333 % | |
74 | Lebanon | 11.139 % | |
75 | Madagascar | 10.945 % | |
76 | Germany | 10.891 % | |
77 | Russia | 10.872 % | |
78 | United States | 10.769 % | |
79 | Tajikistan | 10.711 % | |
80 | Argentina | 10.429 % | |
81 | Switzerland | 9.451 % | |
82 | Guinea-Bissau | 8.304 % | |
83 | Saudi Arabia | 8.091 % | |
84 | Angola | 7.588 % | |
85 | Panama | 7.178 % | |
86 | China | 7.018 % | |
87 | Ethiopia | 3.398 % | |
88 | Somalia | 2.239 % | |
89 | United Arab Emirates | 0.648 % |
- #1
Lesotho
- #2
Namibia
- #3
Denmark
- #4
New Zealand
- #5
Luxembourg
- #6
China, Macao SAR
- #7
Greece
- #8
Sweden
- #9
United Kingdom
- #10
South Africa
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
- #89
United Arab Emirates
- #88
Somalia
- #87
Ethiopia
- #86
China
- #85
Panama
- #84
Angola
- #83
Saudi Arabia
- #82
Guinea-Bissau
- #81
Switzerland
- #80
Argentina
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Analysis & Context
In 2024, Lesotho leads the world with the highest Tax Burden (% of GDP) at 35.42%, while the global range spans from 0.65% in the United Arab Emirates to Lesotho's peak. The global average tax burden stands at 18.08%, providing a benchmark for economic comparison across the 89 countries with available data.
Economic Structures and High Tax Burdens
The concentration of high tax burdens in countries like Lesotho and Namibia (33.87%) points to the influence of economic structures reliant on state intervention. In Denmark (33.36%), a robust welfare system necessitates high taxation to fund comprehensive public services, a common feature in Scandinavian economies. Similarly, New Zealand (29.52%) and Luxembourg (28.64%) maintain significant tax burdens to support social welfare and public infrastructure, reflecting their commitment to economic stability through governmental roles.
Minimal Tax Burdens and Economic Freedom
At the opposite end, countries like the United Arab Emirates (0.65%) and Somalia (2.24%) exhibit minimal tax burdens, often correlating with different economic models. The UAE's low tax burden is facilitated by substantial oil revenues, allowing for minimal direct taxation while maintaining public services. In contrast, Somalia's low tax burden may reflect economic instability and limited governmental capacity, resulting in reduced tax collection. Meanwhile, countries like Switzerland (9.45%) balance low taxation with high economic freedom, attracting business investments through favorable tax policies.
Year-over-Year Trends and Notable Changes
Examining year-over-year data reveals significant shifts in tax burdens. China, Macao SAR saw a substantial increase of 4.49% (19.6%), possibly indicating policy shifts toward greater state revenue collection. Ukraine's increase of 3.56% (20.4%) might be attributed to reforms aimed at stabilizing its economy amid geopolitical challenges. On the contrary, Nauru experienced a dramatic decrease of 10.68% (33.3%), potentially due to changes in its economic structure or international aid dynamics. Lesotho also saw a reduction of 4.58% (11.5%), reflecting adjustments in fiscal policy or economic conditions.
Regional Patterns and Policy Implications
Regional patterns in tax burden reveal the impact of policy decisions and economic contexts. In Africa, countries like Lesotho and Namibia have higher tax burdens compared to Angola (7.59%), highlighting varied governmental roles in economic management. In Europe, nations such as Denmark and Sweden (27.23%) demonstrate strong social safety nets funded by higher taxes. Conversely, Saudi Arabia (8.09%) and Guinea-Bissau (8.30%) reflect lower burdens, influenced by different economic priorities and capacities.
These insights into tax burdens across nations underscore the complex interplay between governance, economic strategy, and societal needs. High tax burdens often align with robust public services and economic stability, while lower burdens may indicate different developmental stages or economic models. Understanding these dynamics provides a clearer picture of how countries manage their economic resources in pursuit of growth and prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tax Burden (% of GDP) in 2024
Which country has the highest tax burden as a percentage of GDP in 2024?
Lesotho has the highest tax burden as a percentage of GDP in 2024, with 35.42%.
Which country has the lowest tax burden as a percentage of GDP in 2024?
The United Arab Emirates has the lowest tax burden as a percentage of GDP in 2024, with 0.65%.
What is the average tax burden as a percentage of GDP across all countries in the dataset for 2024?
The average tax burden as a percentage of GDP across all countries in the dataset for 2024 is 18.08%.
What is the median tax burden as a percentage of GDP in 2024?
The median tax burden as a percentage of GDP in 2024 is 18.02%.
Which countries are in the top 3 for the highest tax burden as a percentage of GDP in 2024?
The top 3 countries with the highest tax burden as a percentage of GDP in 2024 are Lesotho with 35.42%, Namibia with 33.87%, and Denmark with 33.36%.
How many countries are included in the tax burden dataset for 2024?
There are 89 countries included in the tax burden dataset for 2024.
Insights by country
Malta
In 2024, Malta has a Tax Burden (% of GDP) of 24.0777855096016 %, ranking #17 out of 89 countries. This figure is notably higher than the European Union average, reflecting Malta's robust public services and social welfare programs. The tax structure is influenced by the country's strategic position as a financial services hub, attracting foreign investment while maintaining competitive tax rates.
Fiji
In 2024, Fiji ranks #18 globally with a Tax Burden of 23.9464341913943 % of GDP. This figure is notably higher than the global average, reflecting a robust taxation system aimed at supporting public services and infrastructure development. Key drivers of this tax burden include Fiji's reliance on tourism revenue and a relatively small population, which necessitates higher tax rates to fund essential services and economic stability.
China, Macao SAR
In 2024, China, Macao SAR has a Tax Burden (% of GDP) of 27.4162061856349 %, ranking #6 out of 89 countries. This figure is notably higher than the global average, reflecting Macao's unique economic structure driven by its tourism and gaming industries. The high tax burden supports extensive public services and infrastructure, which are essential for maintaining its status as a major tourist destination.
Mozambique
In 2024, Mozambique ranks #29 globally with a tax burden of 21.8458736303603 % of GDP. This figure is relatively high compared to many African nations, reflecting a commitment to increasing public revenue amid economic challenges. The tax burden is driven by the government's efforts to finance infrastructure projects and social programs, essential for addressing poverty and stimulating growth in a country with significant natural resource potential.
Uruguay
In 2024, Uruguay ranks #47 globally with a Tax Burden (% of GDP) of 17.862010224025 %. This figure is relatively moderate compared to the global average, indicating a balanced approach to taxation in the region. Key drivers of this tax burden include Uruguay's stable economy and social welfare policies, which aim to support education and healthcare, reflecting the government’s commitment to social equity.
Lithuania
Lithuania ranks #28 globally with a tax burden of 21.8686469645785 % of GDP in 2024. This figure is slightly above the average tax burden in the European Union, indicating a relatively high level of public revenue generation compared to its neighbors. The country's tax structure is influenced by its commitment to social welfare programs and infrastructure development, which require substantial funding. Additionally, Lithuania's robust economic growth and increasing foreign investment have enabled the government to maintain this tax level while fostering a competitive business environment.
Mongolia
Mongolia ranks #52 globally with a Tax Burden of 16.8548718595202 % of GDP in 2024. This figure is relatively low compared to the global average, indicating a less intensive tax environment. Key drivers of this tax burden include Mongolia's reliance on mining revenues, which significantly impacts fiscal policies, and its ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment through favorable tax rates.
Turkey
In 2024, Turkey ranks #49 globally with a tax burden of 17.6239296509985 % of GDP. This figure is notably lower than the global average, reflecting a relatively modest tax collection compared to many developed nations.
The tax burden in Turkey is influenced by a combination of economic policies aimed at stimulating growth and a large informal economy that limits tax revenues. Additionally, the government's focus on investment in infrastructure and social programs may further constrain tax increases, impacting overall fiscal capacity.
Zambia
Zambia ranks #40 globally with a tax burden of 18.8304899930412 % of GDP in 2024. This figure is relatively higher than several neighboring countries, indicating a more significant reliance on tax revenue. Key drivers of this tax burden include Zambia's efforts to enhance public service funding and infrastructure development, alongside its ongoing economic reforms aimed at improving fiscal sustainability.
New Zealand
In 2024, New Zealand ranks #4 globally with a Tax Burden (% of GDP) of 29.5208304137113 %. This figure is significantly higher than the global average, reflecting the country's robust public sector funding. Key drivers include a comprehensive welfare system and extensive public services, which are supported by a relatively progressive tax structure aimed at addressing income inequality.
Data Source
Tax revenue (% of GDP), World Bank (WB)
Taxes are compulsory, unrequited payments, in cash or in kind, made by institutional units to government units. This indicator is expressed as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) which is the total income earned through the production of goods and services in an economic territory during an accounting period.
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