Brazil to maintain fiscal framework, spending controls under Lula, minister says

Brazil's Finance Minister Dario Durigan indicated that the country intends to preserve its current fiscal framework, characterized by spending controls and revenue enhancement, should President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's administration secure another term in the upcoming October elections. Durigan stated in an interview with local radio CBN that the administration is prepared to undertake a fiscal effort equivalent to 2% of GDP, mirroring the commitment made during its current tenure.

Discussions with Congress have led to proposed adjustments aimed at reducing mandatory spending by approximately 10 billion reais ($1.9 billion) by 2027. Durigan emphasized the importance of continued institutional dialogue to achieve spending cuts and broaden the tax base in a manner that is equitable for the population, with the goal of achieving positive fiscal results as early as the following year.

The minister also highlighted the significance of addressing interest rates to combat inequality, suggesting that lower borrowing costs could help reverse the trend of rising public debt. Brazil's central bank recently implemented its fourth consecutive interest rate cut, reducing the benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 14.00%, though future policy moves remain uncertain. Durigan mentioned that meetings with economists from diverse backgrounds have been beneficial in understanding their concerns leading up to the election.