A Finnish professor criticizes the National Coalition Party's proposal to abolish inheritance tax, arguing that the economic reasoning behind it lacks coherence and could lead to complications.
Niku Määttänen, the chairman of the Economic Policy Council and a professor, has criticized the National Coalition Party’s ambition to abolish inheritance and gift taxes, suggesting that the financial strategy proposed lacks clarity and direction. He specifically points to the party’s plan to finance this tax cut through the cancellation of planned reductions in corporate tax, which he describes as "rather erratic". Määttänen’s comments highlight the potential challenges and inconsistencies in economic policy that could arise from such proposals.
The discussion was sparked by comments from Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen during an interview with Kauppalehti, indicating that the coalition is actively considering removing inheritance tax. This proposal has garnered varied support, including from Joakim Strand, the Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering, who echoed similar sentiments in an interview with Iltalehti. The timing of the proposal also aligns with preparations for a governmental framework meeting set for April, which makes the matter more urgent for those involved in fiscal planning.
However, Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has addressed the matter in parliament, stating that there is still no consensus within the government regarding the abolition of the inheritance tax. Orpo's remarks suggest that the proposal may not be a priority at this moment, ensuring that the government is cautious in its approach to significant tax reforms amidst ongoing discussions about economic policy. This uncertainty reflects broader economic concerns in Finland, where tax reforms have become a contentious issue.
