It would be unfair to change taxes this year - Karins

RIGA - It would be unfair to change taxes this year, said Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins (New Unity) in an interview with the Latvian public television today.

The prime minister said that there had not been discussions yet on Finance Minister Arvils Aseradens' (New Unity) planned tax system revision. In late January a meeting is planned with cooperation partners to discuss improvements for the tax system. 

"We have agreed in the government that the tax system should not be changed abruptly. We do not plan any tax changes right now, and when they come, they should be discussed and understood," he said, adding that it would be unfair to change taxes this year.

Asked whether laborforce taxes might be reduced next year, Karins reminded that the previous government has already reduced a number of laborforce taxes and has increased the minimum wage.

"It is a challenge in all countries - how to reduce taxes and make the system more understandable. I have not met any person who says that they like to pay taxes. It is universal, we all understand that it is necessary or else how we would finance the armed forces, the health system and road infrastructure?" said Karins.