Italy's state debt balloons further due to generous building incentives. Recent figures reveal a staggering deviation from initial projections, with last year's state deficit soaring to 7.2% of the GDP, exceeding the planned 5.3%. However, authorities now indicate a potential surge to as high as 10%, a forecast echoed by economists like Lorenzo Codogno.
The culprit behind this surge is Italy's 2020-introduced "Superbonus," which covers citizens' investments in heating systems, solar panels, and insulation. Recent estimates suggest costs could hit €210 billion, equivalent to 10% of the GDP.
Minister Giorgetti has revised incentives, reducing subsidies from 110% to 65-70%, and restricting tax credits from resale. Despite efforts, state costs remain challenging to contain.
Giorgetti vows stringent oversight amid past fraud. Economists anticipate a €30 billion increase in state debt this year, potentially pushing the debt-to-GDP ratio beyond 137.3%.
However, transparency remains elusive as the government withholds key financial details, citing incomplete EU directives. Skeptics view this as a delaying tactic, raising suspicions ahead of European elections.
Minister Giorgetti pledges tax cuts until 2025, hinting at prolonged fiscal strain. Italy faces European scrutiny for excessive debt, prompting a shift towards EU recovery funds for future incentives.