Walloon government announces new budget plan and AI initiatives

The Walloon government has introduced a new three-year budgetary trajectory for 2027–2029, aiming for a balanced budget by 2029. Key economic measures include the ‘Job Bonus,’ which could provide up to 500 euros annually to eligible employees starting in 2028, and significant inheritance tax reforms. Under the proposed plan, the first 75,000 euros of direct line inheritances would be tax-exempt, potentially exempting 62% of such successions.

Additionally, the government plans to reduce vehicle circulation taxes by up to 75 euros starting in 2027 and eliminate taxes on light trailers. Infrastructure investment is also a priority, with over 3.5 billion euros earmarked for various projects over seven years, including hundreds of millions for bridge renovations.

Parallel to these fiscal measures, the regional government intends to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence within public services. Minister Jacqueline Galant stated the goal is to automate repetitive tasks to reduce paperwork and shorten processing times. However, this move toward digital transformation has met resistance from labor unions, who expressed concerns regarding the future of public sector employment.