The ratio of tax and social security contributions to GDP envisaged for 2011 is basically unchanged compared with the level expected for the current year, which is high by both historical and international standards.
It is important that the progress made in curbing expenditure and the fight against tax evasion be translated as soon as possible into lower tax rates, without compromising the budget balance objectives. If the economy were to perform better than expected, it would be opportune to lighten the tax burden even before 2011.