英国财政大臣拟改革商业地产税 为小微企业扩张“减负”

Core Viewpoint - The UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to reform the business rates system to stimulate economic growth and lower the barriers for small and micro businesses expansion [1] Summary by Relevant Sections Economic Context - Concerns over tax increases and inflation are affecting the confidence of businesses and households as the annual budget is approaching on November 26 [1] - Economists believe that Reeves needs to raise hundreds of billions of pounds in additional fiscal revenue due to rising borrowing costs, uncertain economic growth prospects, and the failure to pass welfare cuts [1] Proposed Reforms - Reeves stated that while the economy is not collapsing, it is indeed stagnating [1] - The report suggests alleviating the sudden increase in business rates faced by small and micro businesses during expansion [1] - Key reform proposals include eliminating the sudden increase threshold for business rates and improving the fairness of tax reliefs, which are deemed crucial for promoting growth [1] - The government is also considering adjusting the calculation of tax liabilities and providing more tax reliefs for businesses that enhance asset value through property renovations [1] - More details on the reforms are expected to be announced in the upcoming budget [1] Industry Reactions - Helen Dickinson, CEO of the British Retail Consortium, welcomed the reform plans but emphasized the need for the government to quickly implement the promised tax rate reductions for the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors [1] - She noted that many local plans for employment and store investments will remain stalled until specific proposals are clarified in the budget [1]