France Unveils 2025 Budget: Tax Hikes for Wealthy, Businesses to Cut Deficit Amid EU Pressure

October 10, 2024
France Unveils 2025 Budget: Tax Hikes for Wealthy, Businesses to Cut Deficit Amid EU Pressure
  • The budget seeks to reduce the public deficit from 6.1% this year to 5% next year, with a long-term goal of aligning with the EU's 3% limit by 2029.

  • Michel Barnier, who has been in office for just a month, faces intense pressure as he prepares to present the budget amidst criticism from within his coalition.

  • Debates are intensifying regarding potential tax increases as part of the government's fiscal strategy, which includes raising taxes on the wealthiest households.

  • The wealthiest 65,000 households, earning over €500,000 annually, will face increased taxes, potentially generating €2 billion.

  • On October 10, the French government will unveil its budget proposal for 2025, aiming to address a significant public deficit that currently exceeds 6% of GDP.

  • Despite internal opposition to proposed spending cuts and tax increases, the government is determined to prevent a financial crisis and maintain credibility with financial markets and the EU.

  • The budget anticipates €20 billion in tax increases, reversing a trend of seven years of tax cuts to promote 'fiscal justice'.

  • Measures in the budget include postponing pension increases and reducing the number of public sector jobs, aiming to stabilize public finances.

  • Pressure from financial markets and EU partners has increased due to underwhelming tax revenues and excessive spending this year.

  • Barnier has promised to protect the most vulnerable and working individuals while avoiding a 'fiscal shock' in the budget.

  • Parliament has a strict 70-day timeline to review, amend, and vote on the budget, as mandated by Article 47 of the Constitution.

  • Due to the lack of a parliamentary majority, Barnier may need to use Article 49.3 to pass the budget, a tactic employed by previous administrations.

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