Public Finance in Developing Countries: Theory and Practice - Hardcover

`The book is full of insights, case studies, and a knowledge of the literature that perhaps no other writer on this subject could give.' -- Roy Bahl, Journal of Economic Literature `This book discusses a number of public-finance issues relevant to developing countries. . . . deserves to be read by policymakers as well as academics.' -- Roger Berry, The Economic Journal `This is a very readable and lively book. Tanzi's wide exposure as Director of the IMF's Fiscal Affairs Department has helped shape many of his guidelines and principles, combining theory with a lot of practical experience. . . . a highly useful addition to the literature in the field and will benefit both academics and policymakers.' -- Finance and Development

This lively and accessible book discusses the real world fiscal issues in developing countries within a realistic macroeconomic and social framework. It represents the best synthesis currently available of the link between public finance and macroeconomics in developing countries, with emphasis on positive rather than normative aspects. The first part of the book emphasizes the reasons why normatively prescribed policy objectives are often not achieved. The second part includes various chapters that show the close link that exists between developments in the public finances and in the macroeconomic situation of these countries. The impact on inflation and of the real exchange rate on tax revenue is highlighted. The third part discusses various aspects of taxation and the requirements for successful tax reform.