Core Viewpoint - The modification of the Budget Law is essential for advancing the new round of fiscal and tax system reforms in China, addressing issues such as fragmented budget management and local financial imbalances [1][2][3]. Group 1: Legislative Background - The Budget Law, viewed as the "economic constitution," underwent its first major revision in 2014, which facilitated the implementation of fiscal and tax reforms mandated by the Third Plenary Session of the 18th Central Committee [1]. - The Ministry of Finance has included the modification of the Budget Law in its legislative work plan for 2025, indicating an acceleration of the reform process [1][2]. Group 2: Need for Reform - Experts emphasize the urgency of revising the Budget Law to resolve deep-seated contradictions in China's fiscal and tax system, such as fragmented budget management and the lack of performance constraints [1][2]. - The current Budget Law has not been updated since its major revision in 2014, making it inadequate for the new fiscal reform goals and the current "tight balance" in fiscal revenues and expenditures [2]. Group 3: Central-Local Fiscal Relations - The reform aims to clarify the division of fiscal responsibilities and revenue sources between central and local governments, which is crucial for building a modern fiscal system [3]. - Currently, the central government manages nearly 70% of local fiscal expenditures through transfer payments, which complicates local fiscal management and limits local autonomy [3]. Group 4: Performance Management Issues - The disconnect between performance results and budget adjustments has led to a persistent issue of "spending without accountability," which needs to be addressed through the modification of the Budget Law [4][5]. - Experts point out that the lack of legal frameworks for performance management and incentive mechanisms contributes to this problem [5]. Group 5: Tax Expenditure Regulation - Tax expenditures, which are used to incentivize technological innovation, are not currently regulated under the Budget Law, leading to a lack of oversight and potential fiscal losses [6]. - The proliferation of regional tax incentives has resulted in reduced national fiscal capacity and compromised the fairness of the market environment [6]. - Experts suggest that tax expenditures should be included in comprehensive oversight to prevent revenue loss and ensure that tax incentives align with national innovation goals [6].
破局深层矛盾 适应改革所需 业界期待预算法大修按下加速键
Zheng Quan Shi Bao·2025-06-29 18:00