Belgium's Council of Ministers on Friday agreed to reform "spending reviews," - systematic assessments of the effectiveness and relevance of public spending-, Budget Minister Vincent Van Peteghem announced.
Van Peteghem, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, described this reform as an important step towards controlling public spending.
At the same time, the first priority areas have been defined, he added.
The spending reviews should make it possible to determine whether certain items can contribute to reducing public spending, for example large items such as fossil fuel subsidies or partial exemptions from payroll tax in certain areas.
"A healthy budget requires sound choices. By scrutinising every euro critically, including major expenditures, we will build public finances that stand the test of time, enabling us to continue investing in our prosperity and competitiveness," the minister argued.
Three major areas will be specifically scrutinised for 2026: the organisation of closed centres for asylum and migration, fossil fuel subsidies and exemptions from payroll tax for R&D activities, overtime, night work or shift work.
