[lbo-talk] Derailment - question on Bolivarian Revolution

[Gar Lipow]

> In fairness to the Chavez government, the state *has* been investing in
> infrastructure, agriculture and local industry. They need to do more,
> sure, but it's not that they've done nothing at all. Each developmental
> state can and should learn from the successes -- and failures -- of the
> others.

One thing I've often wondered about.  Venezuela seems to tax local
capitalists at a very low rate. Petroleum revenue is great while you
have it, but what is the logic behind not making the Venezuelan
capitalist class pay more in taxes to pay for  a faster infrastructure
and social transformation? Whether or not it is an error, I'm sure
this has been considered, so I wonder if anyone more familiar with
Venezuela can share the reasons behind this decision.

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