Zile calls for public tax debate

RIGA - A public discussion about increasing some taxes is necessary, European Parliament member and All For Latvia! – For Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK’s potential candidate for the prime minister’s position, Roberts Zile, said in an interview with LNT television, reports LETA.

Zile agrees with Finance Minister Andris Vilks that is it not enough to redistribute tax revenues in order to satisfy all the current needs – 2 percent for defense and extra funding for healthcare, education and other fields. The EP member believes that there are several areas where taxes could be increased, for example in capital gains, real estate, and others, and notes that Latvia has the lowest capital gains taxes.

However, Zile admitted that it will not be enough to increase taxes in these two fields, therefore it will probably be necessary to increase value added tax as well on several product groups. He also believes that those who earn more can afford paying higher taxes.

Zile stressed that the government should not be afraid to discuss increasing taxes with society. Finance Minister Vilks urged a public debate to consider whether taxes should be increased, indicating that due to the low taxes in Latvia, the national budget runs low on resources to satisfy all needs and interests.