WKÖ Budget Proposal 2026 Presented

The Vice President responsible for finances, Wolfgang Hesoun, presented the WKÖ budget proposal for 2026 on Thursday before the Economic Parliament. This took place in light of upcoming Chamber of Commerce reforms, which all chamber factions now want to implement, following Harald Mahrer's (ÖVP) withdrawal from the chamber leadership and a sluggish economy. Projected revenues of 327.2 million euros are set against expenditures of 332.6 million euros, according to a release.

Revenues and expenses result in a negative operating result of 5.4 million euros for 2026 according to the proposal. The financial result amounts to 1.5 million euros. After deducting 0.4 million euros in capital gains taxes and considering reserve management, a balance sheet loss of 4.2 million euros is expected for 2026, although this will be reduced by the implementation of a strict budget execution and current savings measures.

"We expect a largely stable levy income compared to the 2025 proposal," said WKÖ Vice President and Finance Officer Wolfgang Hesoun from the social democratic SWV. Specifically, the plan for chamber levies foresees a total income of 259 million euros, of which 100 million euros are attributed to Chamber Levy 1, dependent on pre-tax, and 159 million euros to Chamber Levy 2, payable by employer businesses.

Change in Levy Income?

The levy income could change in the future as a result of reform efforts - but probably not until 2027. Some factions are calling for a complete end to KU 2, while others suggest it should be waived for older employees.

In addition to the chamber levies, the 2026 budget estimates goods and service revenues of 22.1 million euros. Added to this are other operating income - primarily grants and subsidies for co-financed projects - totaling 46.1 million euros.

The revenues are offset by 154.3 million euros in personnel expenses and 178.3 million euros in material expenses, totaling 332.6 million euros. This concerns material costs for directly member-related services in areas such as foreign trade, education, and member information, as well as infrastructure costs at home and abroad. The budget proposal is at the same level as 2025.

WKÖ Budget Proposal Largely Accepted

The chamber release pointed out that despite stagnant levy revenues, the WKÖ continues to invest in a broad, target group-specific service and performance portfolio. This serves to support domestic businesses.

"The economy and entrepreneurs in Austria and globally are facing great challenges. The WKÖ sees itself as a reliable and stable partner that supports domestic businesses. With this, we want to send a signal of confidence, especially in difficult times," emphasized Hesoun. The 2026 budget proposal was largely accepted.

(APA/Red)

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