Agenda Profile: Tanel Kiik
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Value-Added Tax Act (661 SE)
2025-10-09
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political stance is strongly in favor of reducing the VAT on foodstuffs, justifying this by citing the practice of the majority of the European Union and the necessity of making the consumer basket more affordable for people. The position is policy- and results-based, while simultaneously emphasizing the need to consider Toomas Luman's proposal for temporary implementation to test the measure's effectiveness. Concern is also expressed regarding the internal distribution of power and influence within the governing coalition.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in tax policy, drawing a distinction between the taxation of essential (foodstuffs) and non-essential goods, and referencing widespread practice across the European Union. They are also well-versed in legislative procedure, inquiring about the substance of the Finance Committee's deliberations and how specific proposals (e.g., funding sources, time limits) are being taken into account.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal and analytical, employing both persuasive arguments (the necessity of moving towards Europe) and sharp procedural and political questions. The speaker strives for clarity and emphasizes logical justification, also posing rhetorical questions regarding the internal division of roles within the governing coalition.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity is limited to participation in the Riigikogu session, raising questions and expressing views during the first reading of the draft Act on Amendments to the Value Added Tax Act (661 SE).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism targets the internal dynamics of the ruling coalition, specifically questioning the influence (or "say") of Eesti 200 and suggesting the Reform Party plays a dominant role ("the captain"). Furthermore, the Finance Committee is indirectly criticized for failing to discuss a significant proposal put forward by the public and parliamentary parties (regarding fixed-term implementation).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is open to compromise and cooperation, and asked the Social Democrats about their willingness to discuss a temporary reduction in VAT. He/She stresses the necessity of reaching agreements with trade partners and various sectors in order to pilot the solution before making a permanent decision.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national tax policy and the international context (European Union practice) in order to improve the purchasing power of the Estonian people.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic arguments support a tax overhaul where essential goods (such as food) are taxed at a lower rate, and non-essential items are taxed higher. The goal is to improve people’s purchasing power and make the consumer basket more affordable, thereby supporting the consumer.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The key social issue is the cost of living and improving access to essential goods (food items) for people via tax reductions. This is framed as a social measure designed to support vital necessities.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the Draft Act on Amendments to the Value-Added Tax Act (661 SE), which aims to lower the VAT rate on foodstuffs. The speaker supports the bill but emphasizes the need to discuss alternative implementation methods, such as a time-limited pilot project, and the question of funding sources.
2 Speeches Analyzed