In jurisdictions employing a value-added tax (VAT) or goods and services tax (GST) system, a mechanism exists to prevent cumulative taxation on inputs used in the production process. This mechanism allows registered businesses to reduce their output tax liability by the amount of tax already paid on purchases of goods or services used in their business operations. For example, a manufacturing company purchases raw materials subject to VAT. The tax paid on these materials can then be used to offset the tax owed on the sale of the finished goods produced by the company.
This system offers several benefits. Primarily, it avoids the cascading effect of taxes, wherein tax is levied multiple times on the same value as goods and services move through the supply chain. This, in turn, reduces the overall cost of goods and services, promoting economic efficiency. Furthermore, it incentivizes businesses to register for VAT/GST, fostering transparency and compliance within the tax system. The concept emerged alongside the development of modern VAT systems in the mid-20th century, designed to create a more neutral and efficient tax environment.