Taxation of International Transport

FERDI has studied the possibility of taxing the fuel used in civil aviation and maritime transport to support countries vulnerable to climate change.

For aviation, the study examines the constraints and opportunities for implementing a tax on civil aviation fuel, , which could generate between 5.8 and 18 billion euros a year. These funds could support measures to adapt to climate change and encourage a transition to greener transport. The conclusions were incorporated into the recommendations for the Summit for a New Global Financial Pact in June 2023.

For maritime transport, the study examines the economic effects of a carbon tax, assessing its impact on trade flows, consumer purchasing power, and CO2 emissions. Three major conclusions emerge: the tax affects countries unfairly, penalising poorer countries more; it has little impact on reducing CO2 emissions; and the tax resources generated are much lower than the associated economic costs. 

This analysis provides a quantitative basis for ongoing international discussions and negotiations. 

Latest outputs

↪ Publication of the working paper « Navigating international taxation : the effects of a carbon levy on shipping » (Vianney Dequiedt, Audrey-Anne de Ubeda et Edouard Mien, May 2024), with a policy brief summarising findings and recommendations.

↪ Dissemination to French and international institutions, including in the August DGM (MEAE) newsletter

↪ Presentation of results at COP29 and in academic forums

↪ Contribution to French government discussions on the future of the Solidarity Fund for Development and the use of taxes on flights and financial transactions

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