By Plenary Sessions: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart

It focuses on the economic impacts of mechanisms that increase the tax burden: it highlights price increases (VAT, excise duty) and the increased costs associated with vehicles; it stresses that the car tax generates additional costs and could potentially reduce investments in the road network. It proposes an alternative (a one-time additional bank tax) and points to the budget and depreciation as potential funding channels.

Economically, the speaker opposes tax increases, emphasizing that such measures would raise costs for car owners and subsequently diminish the volume of future investments. He argues that the proposed car tax and high consumption taxation could decrease vehicle usage and restrict infrastructure development efforts. He recommends directing resources more efficiently and focusing on improving mobility in rural areas.

The effectiveness of state funding allocated to education in driving economic growth is highlighted, confirming the profitability of such investment: an investment in higher education returns 4 euros to the economy for every euro invested. The aim is to allocate at least 1.5% of GDP to fund higher education institutions. The effects of underfunding on the economy and the sustainability of the financing system are in direct contradiction.

Criticism of the PM’s economic plan, which could lead to cuts in road maintenance expenditure; it is emphasized that investments in road upkeep must not decrease. Regarding the proposed car tax, there is a question about its impact on the balance between traffic and investments; the general attitude leans toward maintaining or increasing investments, alongside a partial crisis in tax policy.

Economic reports focus on the impact of tax policy on the general economy and the tourism sector, emphasizing the need to balance these effects. They advocate for decision-making rooted in impact assessments and suggest maintaining or lowering the tax rate to stimulate growth and mitigate losses. Furthermore, the reports stress the importance of regional tax balance and achieving a broad-based economic effect.