Key Economic Ministries to be Led by Familiar Faces in New Slovenian Government

Slovenia's emerging fourth government under Janez Janša is set to consolidate key economic portfolios, with established figures tapped for crucial roles. Andrej Šircelj is slated to lead the finance ministry, Jernej Vrtovec will head infrastructure and energy, and Anže Logar is expected to take charge of the economy, according to Forbes.

The new coalition's economic agenda prioritizes merging economy and labor into a single ministry. A national productivity program aims to enhance company competitiveness through accelerated digitalization, automation, and technological upgrades within the first year of the mandate. The government also plans a 100 million euro program by 2030 to fund development projects linking businesses with research institutions.

To attract capital and skilled labor, the government intends to introduce visas for digital nomads and entrepreneurs, while simplifying employment for foreign workers. On the fiscal front, a more restrictive policy is promised, with strict adherence to European fiscal rules. Public spending growth is capped at inflation rates. Tax policy will focus on easing burdens on citizens and businesses without introducing new taxes. Key measures include abolishing the top 50% income tax bracket, reducing the highest rate to 40%, gradually increasing general tax relief, and offering additional relief for individuals under 29.

Furthermore, the coalition plans to implement a social or development cap and provide incentives for companies to reinvest profits. In energy and spatial planning, the focus is on expediting project approvals and permitting processes. Support is earmarked for waste-to-energy infrastructure and faster natural resource utilization. A review of major infrastructure projects, including the C0 canal project, is also on the agenda.