Belgium budget talks: De Wever government targets 10 billion euros

The De Wever government in Belgium is engaged in intensive budget negotiations aimed at finding 10 billion euros in savings and revenue for the 2027-2029 period. Center-left parties are advocating for increased financial burdens on the wealthiest citizens, with real estate taxes identified as a likely source of new funding. Proposals include a potential annual wealth tax for millionaires with rates between 0.3% and 0.6%, though experts note significant hurdles such as the lack of a national wealth register and the risk of capital flight. Alternatively, the government may adjust existing frameworks, such as expanding the scope of the securities account tax.

In Flanders, the regional government is targeting 155 million euros in savings for its own operations next year by increasing the use of artificial intelligence. Minister-President Matthias Diependaele announced plans to replace only one out of every three departing civil servants to maintain budget equilibrium. The Flemish government aims for total savings of 1.9 billion euros next year, rising to 3.1 billion euros by 2029. While AI is expected to boost productivity, Diependaele noted it also creates uncertainty, and specific details regarding investment budgets or concrete applications remain limited.