Listhaug slams Støre’s focus on corporate tax, calls wealth tax the real issue

Sylvi Listhaug, leader of the Progress Party, sharply criticized Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre for his pre-emptive emphasis on corporate tax ahead of the upcoming parliamentary tax talks. She pointed out that corporate tax is only payable on profitable enterprises, while the wealth tax must be paid irrespective of a company’s financial results. According to Listhaug, the wealth tax affects only domestically owned companies, allowing foreign owners to avoid it.

She described the government’s focus on protecting corporate profits as a paradox that alienates owners of thriving Norwegian businesses. Listhaug hinted she could tolerate a slight rise in corporate tax if it paved the way for abolishing the wealth tax, which she framed as a non-negotiable priority. Labour Party officials, including Ellen Reitan from the Finance Ministry, maintain that the wealth tax is essential for ensuring a fair distribution of wealth.