France proposes 60 billion euro tax increase for EU budget

France has proposed generating more than 60 billion euros in new revenue through EU-wide taxes to fund the European Union’s 2028–2034 budget. During a closed-door meeting of member state representatives, France’s Permanent Representative to the EU, Philippe Leglise Costa, argued that these new resources, categorized as own resources, should be directed toward priority areas such as defense and competitiveness.

While there is consensus among member states regarding revenue from the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and electronic waste, many countries have expressed opposition to France’s other proposals. These include taxes on tobacco products, company turnovers, and revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System, which several members consider too high.

Ireland, currently holding the EU presidency, aims to clarify acceptable revenue sources before the EU Leaders' Summit in Brussels on October 15. The negotiations are part of the development of the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), which is intended to take effect on January 1, 2028. Approval of the long-term budget requires both European Parliament consent and unanimous agreement within the EU Council.