Main Revenue Sources of the Lebanese Government
The Lebanese government derives revenue from diverse sources, categorized as follows:
1. Tax Revenue
- Value-Added Tax (VAT) – General consumption tax on goods/services.
- Income Tax – On individuals and businesses.
- Corporate Tax – On business profits.
- Customs Duties & Import Fees – On imported goods.
- Property Taxes – On real estate.
- Vehicle Registration & Taxes – Ownership and registration fees.
2. Non-Tax Revenue
- Customs fees, licenses, permits, government service fees (passports, visas), fines/penalties.
- Tourism revenue (visa fees, site revenues).
- Sale of state assets.
- International donations and grants.
3. Central Bank (Banque du Liban) Operations
- Government bonds and treasury bills (borrowing).
- Seigniorage (currency issuance profits).
4. Public Utilities & Services
- Electricity and water tariffs.
- Telecommunication fees and taxes.
5. Real Estate Transactions
- Stamp duty on property transfers.
- Registration fees.
- Development and building permits.
These revenues fund public salaries, infrastructure, education, healthcare, defense, and essential operations. However, Lebanon's ongoing economic crisis has severely strained fiscal capacity.