We analyze the restricted origin principle for taxing international trade in a three-country, three-commodity model where two of the countries form an economic union. Using simplifying assumptions with respect to the initial tax equilibrium and the structure of preferences, the effects of a...

The paper sets up an analytical framework within which the arguments for centralized vs. decentralized tax policy can be represented and weighed against each other. Two aspects of the debate are considered: first, the global welfare effects of 'harmonizing' tax reforms are discussed when...