Beginning next month, China will impose a value-added tax on condoms and other contraceptives, reversing a 33-year exemption. This policy change, part of a broader effort to boost the nation’s declining birth rate, will likely increase the cost of contraception. Experts express concern that this tax could limit access to contraception, particularly for young people, while also overlooking gender-equality concerns and potentially increasing STI rates. Simultaneously, the state is promoting marriage and childbearing, with matchmaking agencies newly added to the tax-exempt list, creating a shift in how the state approaches family, marriage, and reproduction.
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On November 8th, a proposal to impose a “minimum contribution” on foreign retirees benefiting from France’s universal healthcare coverage after three months of residency garnered significant support in the Assemblée Nationale. The amendment, spearheaded by MP François Gernigon, targeted retirees from G20 countries, specifically those holding long-stay visas. This measure, aimed at addressing the nation’s €23 billion social security deficit, seeks to ensure reciprocity as many of these countries lack similar healthcare contribution arrangements. While the public accounts minister acknowledged the government’s seriousness regarding the issue, the amendment was carefully crafted to exclude all foreign nationals, and focus on the G20 countries.
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The initiative proposes a one-time 5% tax on the wealth of California billionaires, potentially generating $100 billion. This levy would impact approximately 200 residents with a net worth of $1 billion or more. The funds raised would be earmarked for state health-care costs. Supported by a healthcare workers’ union, the initiative aims to offset federal funding reductions.
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The Democratic party, currently out of power, should advocate for a wealth tax to regain voter support in upcoming elections. Proposing an annual tax on individuals with significant wealth, such as 5% on those with $50 million or more and 10% on those with $250 million or more, could generate trillions of dollars and curb the influence of billionaires. This strategy aims to counteract the cycle of billionaires using wealth to acquire political power and dismantle public programs. Democrats must choose between defending the current economic landscape or taking the offensive with a wealth tax message to empower the public.
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President Macron is reportedly considering retaliatory measures against U.S. digital players due to concerns over digital rules perceived as discriminatory by the Trump administration. This comes after Trump threatened further tariffs on countries with digital rules that discriminate against U.S. companies, following a recent trade deal between the U.S. and the EU. While the EU has refrained from imposing countermeasures, Macron has been a vocal advocate for a tougher stance on trade with the U.S. Macron plans to discuss the issue with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz this week to assess the situation.
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The Polish government is proposing a 3% digital tax on companies with global revenues exceeding €750 million, aiming to ensure tech companies pay taxes in Poland. Despite former President Trump’s claims of discrimination against American tech, the tax is intended to apply to all relevant market participants. The revenue generated will support Polish technology development and media content creation, potentially impacting services like marketplaces and digital advertising. However, the tax’s implementation could face opposition from Poland’s president, who reportedly has a positive relationship with Trump.
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No tax on tips. It sounds simple, right? Almost too good to be true. And, as it turns out, that’s because it was. The promise, a shiny bauble dangled before a hungry electorate, came with a hefty dose of “fine print,” transforming a seemingly straightforward proposition into a complex and, for many, disappointing reality.
The devil, as they say, is in the details. In this case, the details revealed that the “no tax on tips” pledge wasn’t a complete exemption. Instead, it was capped at a specific income level, meaning that those whose earnings exceeded a certain threshold would still be subject to taxation on their tips.… Continue reading
The European Union is considering imposing a tax on large American tech companies if trade negotiations with the United States falter. This isn’t a mere threat; the gravity of the situation is palpable, fueled by a growing frustration with the influence and practices of these tech giants. The potential for this tax is a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions.
This potential tax is driven by a confluence of factors, far beyond simple economic concerns. The EU feels American social media companies have wielded immense power, fostering the spread of misinformation and extremism, undermining democratic processes. This is viewed as an unacceptable consequence of unchecked influence.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood