Italy's Forza Italia rejects wealth tax as M5S divides over proposal

Antonio Tajani, secretary of Forza Italia and Italy’s foreign minister, said the party will not introduce a wealth (patrimonial) tax while it remains in government. In a video message he outlined tax cuts, including a reduction of the IRPEF rate from 35% to 33% for incomes up to €60,000, no increase in inheritance tax, and measures to channel private savings into infrastructure.

Within the Five Star Movement, the issue is causing a split. Party leader Giuseppe Conte firmly opposes a wealth tax, while a large share of the party’s base backs it. An internal survey of the party’s Nova platform shows 57% of regional tables list the tax among their top priorities and a poll indicates 72% of M5S voters support a levy on assets above €2 million. Prominent members such as former mayor Chiara Appendino advocate a tax on multimillionaires that could raise €13‑15 billion to fund citizenship income, health care and the digital transition. The debate is ongoing as the movement prepares recommendations for its coalition government program.