Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Lower the Value Added Tax on Foodstuffs and Medicines to 5 Percent" (272 OE)
2024-03-13
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting.
Political Position
There is strong support for lowering the VAT on foodstuffs and medicines, viewing this as a crucial measure to prevent the bankruptcy of small producers and lessen the burden on the final consumer. The political focus is centered on economic survival and guaranteeing national security through domestic food production. Opposition is voiced against new taxes (such as the sugar tax) and the European "green frenzy," which are perceived as the primary drivers of price increases.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speakers demonstrate knowledge of the economic situation of Estonian small producers, highlighting specific examples of businesses facing bankruptcy (Pajumäe farm, Rahinge Meat Processing Plant, Kehtna Meat Processing Plant). Also highlighted is the impact of VAT on the final consumer and awareness of the European farmers' protests, particularly in the context of the Latvian example.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is distressed and pressing, highlighting the bankruptcy threat facing small producers and the difficult plight of consumers. Both logical appeals (the consumer pays the VAT) and emotional appeals are utilized, sharply criticizing the "green frenzy." The style is formal, yet it includes concrete examples of economic failure.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticism is aimed at the government's tax policy (raising VAT, the sugar tax) and, more broadly, the European Union's green policy. The opposition is policy- and value-driven, emphasizing that tax hikes and regulations directly harm consumers and producers. They oppose policies that force consumers to bear the cost of price increases.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speakers acknowledge and support the bill under discussion, calling it a "very good bill." There are no references to cross-party cooperation or willingness to compromise; the focus is on strong support for the initiative.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The emphasis is placed on Estonia’s domestic issues and local small-scale producers, highlighting specific examples of Estonian companies currently going bankrupt. The international context is also mentioned, citing the protests of Latvian farmers and Europe’s excessive focus on the green transition (or 'green frenzy'), in order to support the domestic argument.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
They support lowering the tax burden (specifically VAT) on food items to stimulate consumption and protect small producers from bankruptcy. Tax hikes (including the sugar tax) are viewed as a negative factor that increases costs for the final consumer and endangers the economy. The priority is the interests of businesses and preserving consumer purchasing power.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The production and availability of foodstuffs are partially treated as an issue of Estonian national security. This highlights the importance of social stability and national security of supply. Direct positions on traditional social issues (e.g., education, immigration) are not presented.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative priority is lowering the VAT on foodstuffs and medicines to 5% (Bill 272 OE), a measure that is strongly supported. Opposition is also expressed to the implementation of new taxes (such as the sugar tax) which would increase the base cost.
2 Speeches Analyzed