earticle

영어

This study analyzes the policy network surrounding the tonnage tax system and proposes measures to enhance its effectiveness. The research findings identify the main actors involved in tonnage tax policy as: 1) the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, 2) Korea Shipowners’ Association, 3) the National Assembly, and 4) academia and maritime industry organizations. It appears that these stakeholders, directly or indirectly contributing to the design of the tonnage tax policy, are each striving to advance their own interests. However, excessive pursuit of self-interest was not evident; rather, it seemed to serve as a driving force for policy development, indicating that the internalized pursuit of interests among these actors has positive implications. While the tonnage tax policy has resulted in adverse effects, such as an oversupply of shipping capacity during boom periods. To enhance the effectiveness of the tonnage tax policy, this study presents various improvement measures. The proposed measures include: 1) strengthening the role of the government, 2) enhancing the role of experts, 3) establishing a dedicated department for policy development research, and 4) increasing the social responsibility of shipping companies.