The OECD sees vast potential for clean economic growth in Finland. However, structural reforms will be required to realise this potential. Among other things, the OECD recommends that Finland boost higher education, attract high-skilled immigrants and improve incentives for investments. Further adjustments to public finances are necessary due to rising defence spending.

The Finnish economy is expected to grow, but the trade war may substantially slow down growth. In its forecast published on 30 April, the Ministry of Finance warns that general government finances remain weak, and that Finland has few buffers to reduce the impacts of a trade war.

The General Government Fiscal Plan guides the planning public finances. It covers central government, wellbeing services counties, municipalities, statutory earnings-related pension funds and other social security funds.

Finland is requesting that the EU activate the national escape clause in the EU’s fiscal policy rules in order to increase defence spending. The majority of EU Member States are likely to request activation of the escape clause.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s Government has agreed on the General Government Fiscal Plan for 2026–2029. The decisions focus on reinforcing the conditions for economic growth and enhancing the security of Finland and the Finnish people. At the same time, the Government will ensure that public finances are sustainable. The growth package will be financed responsibly through measures to increase general government revenue and reduce expenditure.