PNV y Confebask rebajan la tensión pero mantienen las discrepancias sobre fiscalidad | El Correo

Easing Tensions, but Discrepancies Remain

The Basque Nationalist Party (PNV) and Confebask, the Basque employers' association, held a high-level meeting to de-escalate tensions following disagreements over recent tax reforms. While both sides expressed commitment to dialogue, differences regarding the tax reforms' impact on businesses persisted.

Key Points of Contention

• Tax Reform: Confebask expressed significant concerns and 'total discouragement' over the recently approved tax reform, viewing it as detrimental to businesses. The PNV defended the reform, highlighting its alignment with 2018's tax framework and maintaining that the Basque Country's fiscal competitiveness remains strong.
• Past Criticisms: Previous PNV leadership criticized Confebask for its alignment with the Spanish national employer's association (CEOE), suggesting that this influenced their criticism of Basque policies. Further disagreements arose over Confebask's refusal to participate in negotiations regarding a Basque minimum wage.

Outcome of the Meeting

The meeting, the first between the newly elected PNV leadership and Confebask, emphasized dialogue and conflict avoidance. While Confebask maintained its concerns over increasing fiscal burdens and labor costs, they expressed a positive view of government initiatives supporting industry and public-private partnerships. The PNV reiterated its commitment to supporting Basque businesses and outlined measures, including fiscal adjustments and a planned 'fiscal shield', to help them navigate economic challenges.