adNov 12, 2026, 13:59

New twist in tax plan crisis: ministry advises against millionaire tax plan

The Dutch Ministry of Finance has advised against a proposed millionaire tax supported by PRO and Volt, citing concerns over its uncertain funding structure and increased administrative complexity. This proposal has caused significant strain within the cabinet, exposing deep divisions between coalition partners like D66 and the VVD.

The Dutch government is facing internal friction regarding a proposed millionaire tax put forward by PRO and Volt. While the initiative has gained support from D66 and the CDA, the VVD remains firmly opposed, putting the stability of the cabinet at risk. Adding to this political tension, the Ministry of Finance has issued a report advising against the current proposal. The official correspondence, signed by both D66 State Secretary Eelco Eerenberg and VVD Minister Eelco Heinen, highlights significant concerns regarding the plan's financial feasibility.

The ministry argues that the proposal relies too heavily on uncertain changes to tax regulations, making the plan's funding foundation appear non-concrete. Although the ministry acknowledged that a millionaire tax could be technically implemented, they warned that such a measure would introduce unnecessary administrative complexity to the current fiscal system. The government's formal advice suggests that the proposal is currently insufficient for adoption, deepening the ongoing crisis surrounding the broader national tax plan.

Politics Economy Netherlands

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Full tank ten euros more expensive, specialty beer price remains steady: what happens if the tax plan fails

If the Dutch government's tax plan is rejected, citizens will likely face higher fuel costs due to the loss of excise tax discounts, but will benefit from full inflation adjustments in income tax brackets. Other proposed tax hikes on items like tap water and craft beer would be canceled, although planned tax cuts on long-haul flights and specific investment subsidies would also disappear.

Total chaos: VVD threatens to vote against own cabinet's entire tax plan due to millionaire's tax

The VVD has threatened to vote against the government's entire tax plan if a controversial millionaire's tax is maintained. Party leader Ruben Brekelmans argues the tax will damage the economy and states the VVD was blindsided by a deal made between coalition partners and opposition parties.

Greta Thunberg reappears at climate summit after years of absence

Greta Thunberg made an unexpected return to a climate summit in Antalya to criticize world leaders for hypocrisy and the ongoing destruction of the planet. Her appearance was welcomed by Dutch climate youth, who noted that her presence helps stimulate essential discussions that are otherwise neglected by absent officials.

Belgium also sees possible Iranian role in cyberattack on cooling systems

A wave of cyberattacks targeting refrigeration systems in Belgian supermarkets and smaller businesses across Europe is being investigated for potential ties to Iranian hackers. While officials in Belgium are probing these links, Dutch authorities noted that while major supermarket chains remained unaffected, smaller local shops in the Netherlands were hit by the same campaign.

Amsterdam wants to increase tourist tax: what are the consequences and is it wise?

The Amsterdam city council is considering raising its tourist tax to 20 percent by 2031 to curb the city's ongoing overtourism issues and improve local livability. The proposal has drawn criticism from industry experts and political opponents, who argue that the tax will harm businesses and fail to effectively manage visitor numbers.