Bundeswirtschaftsministerin Katharina Reiche (CDU) said she is not dismissing an increase of the top income‑tax rate, even though Foreign Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) called for a payroll‑tax hike for the top five percent of earners. In an interview, Reiche stated, “I say nothing. I rule out nothing” and added that ultimately a solid reform package is what matters.
She insists on tax cuts for companies, urging that the corporate‑tax rate be lowered in 2027 rather than 2028. “That would be a major relief and a clear sign that we’re inviting investment into Germany’s location” she explained.
Reiche demands that the government’s planned reforms take effect “as soon as possible”-she said the measures should be in place before the summer, if not earlier, and certainly well before 12 a.m. on the day of implementation.
To soften the impact of high gasoline prices, Reiche proposes a temporary increase to the commuter allowance. She suggested that the additional funding come from higher value‑added VAT revenues, though she did not disclose a specific amount for the raise.