Sakova: Gov't to Debate Growth-Focused Tax Reforms in Autumn

Bratislava, 2 June (TASR) - The government will discuss tax and social contribution measures aimed at supporting economic growth in the autumn when preparing the 2027 state budget, Economy Minister Denisa Sakova (Voice-SD) announced after Tuesday's special meeting of the Economic and Social Council (HSR). "Two dates were announced directly by the Finance Ministry today — 17 June, when the macroeconomic forecast is to be published, and 24 June, when the tax and social contribution forecast will be released. Based on the information published in these forecasts, the Finance Ministry will be able to take a clearer position on individual requests concerning tax and social contribution measures, particularly those coming from the business sector," she stated. Sakova noted that taxation and levies remain the most frequently discussed issue, as businesses and employers' associations have long argued that Slovakia's taxes and levies burden is not competitive compared with neighbouring countries. "We understand that the business sector was mainly expecting feedback regarding taxes and levies and perhaps also a new depreciation policy. However, from the outset we stated that for 2026, through a fast-tracked legislative procedure, we would submit only those changes that can be implemented within the current year. All other changes, impacts and measures agreed by the government will be discussed in September during preparations for the 2027 budget," Sakova underlined. She added that she had submitted to the tripartite council "around 49 different measures collected after consensus was reached among trade unions, employees, employers and associations". "Every measure submitted to the Economy Ministry was discussed, in accordance with the Power Act, with the minister responsible for the relevant area," she said. "Of these 49 measures included in the first package, around 11 are legislative measures, which we presented today in the form of a bill on pro-growth measures for discussion by the HSR. A further 32 measures have been incorporated into a government resolution, which we also submitted to the HSR today. We will discuss these individual measures with the relevant ministers in the autumn. Most of the 32 measures have implications for the state budget," Sakova added. mf