Taxing urban vacant land: International experiences and policy implications for Vietnam

Abstract

Currently, the Ministry of Finance is studying the draft Law on Real Estate Tax, which includes provisions for taxing second homes and taxing vacant houses and land in accordance with international practices. This article provides a perspective from international experience on vacant urban land, also known as vacant land tax (VLT). This type of tax is primarily issued by local governments with the aim of generating additional revenue for the city government and combating speculation, especially in developing countries.