Vienna, June 25, 2026
The Austrian Parliament Budget Office (Budget Office) considers the deficit target of three percent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2028, anchored in the double budget 2027/28, to be hardly achievable and sees a 'series of risks'.
In its analysis of the double budget 2027/28, published on Thursday, the Budget Office concludes that the achievement of the target is 'subject to high uncertainty for several reasons'. The budget consolidation required to comply with the Maastricht deficit target of three percent of GDP in 2028 must be 'consistently continued'. Otherwise, deviating from the target path threatens.
Debt ratio and economic situation
Despite declining deficits, the Budget Office forecasts a rise in Austria's debt ratio to 85 percent of gross domestic product by 2031. According to the Budget Office, the economic situation remains volatile, which additionally complicates planning. The other regional authorities must also contribute to consolidation.