Eelco Eerenberg, the incoming State Secretary for Finance, has identified reforming the Dutch wealth tax system as his most urgent priority. Eerenberg, a member of the D66 party, is set to begin his role on Monday. He replaces Nathalie van Berkel, who withdrew this week amid controversy over inaccuracies in her resume.
Eerenberg shared his plans after meeting with the Prime Minister-elect, Rob Jetten. Last week, the House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer) approved a major overhaul of the (box 3) tax category, which is scheduled to take effect in 2028.
The new system will tax the actual increase in asset value rather than relying on a fixed assumed return. The previous system was deemed unsustainable after the State lost several legal battles. However, the proposal faces opposition, particularly from investors who fear higher tax bills. These concerns are likely to be debated in the Senate (Eerste Kamer), which still needs to approve the plan. Eerenberg stated he intends to work with great energy to ensure the proposal reaches the finish line.
Jetten met with all the new ministers and state secretaries of his cabinet this week, with Eerenberg being the last person to be received. On Saturday, the formateur will present the final report to the President of the House of Representatives, Thom van Campen. The new cabinet is expected to take the official platform photograph on Monday.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
