Artificial Intelligence and Taxation: Economist Ezio Stellato on Rai News 24 warns of the risks of the “digital tax evasion”

During the broadcast hosted by Lorenzo Lo Basso on Rai News 24 , the economist and head of fiscal policy at the Friedman Institute, Ezio Stellato , offered an in-depth reflection on the use of Artificial Intelligence in the fight against tax evasion.

Stellato illustrated the contents of the agreement between the Revenue Agency and the Guardia di Finanza , which introduces intelligent algorithms for the interception of data of taxpayers at risk of tax evasion. “ Tax evasion must be fought firmly ,” he explained, “ but Artificial Intelligence must not transform itself into a pervasive control system. We cannot allow a tool created to improve tax efficiency to end up undermining the freedom and privacy of citizens .”

The economist then launched a warning on the so-called “ digital tax evasion meter ”, underlining how, if not properly regulated, it could push towards a drift towards a “ digital counter ” where every citizen is registered based on debts and tax positions, without distinguishing between fraud and objective difficulty. “ You don’t always get into debt through your own fault ”, he added, “ often it is the State itself that doesn’t honour the payments due to companies ”.

During the episode, the tax burden and inequalities were also discussed, with reference to the fact that 40% of the population pays 92% of the IRPEF . Stellato highlighted the imbalance between self-employed workers and public employees: " Those who have the tax withheld from their paycheck cannot escape, but those with a VAT number are less protected and more exposed to risks ."

Finally, the economist commented on the effect of the tariffs international and commodity price inflation, speaking of a 28% increase and the fragility of the markets. “T rump has shaken the markets,” he said, “but the reaction of the stock exchanges and economic actors suggests that certain balances are changing .”

Ezio Stellato concluded his speech by reiterating that “ Artificial Intelligence must remain a tool at the service of man, not a substitute for human judgment nor a means of oppression. We need rigor, but also fairness .”