OECD Economic Surveys: Finland 2018

The Finnish economy in 2018 was rebounding strongly after almost a decade of lacklustre economic performance. The revival in global growth and investment, coupled with competitiveness gains, was boosting exports. Consumption remained healthy despite slow income growth and both business and residential investment were buoyant.

Nevertheless, a rapidly ageing population limited the long-term growth potential and weighed on public finances. Increased mobility of tax bases related to globalisation created further challenges in raising revenue, while the tax system should also support growth, competitiveness and employment, and maintain its ability to contain income inequality.

To ensure steady and inclusive growth, Finland’s employment rate, which was markedly lower than in the other Nordic countries, needed to be lifted. The welfare system had to generate strong work incentives, protect the vulnerable and adapt to a changing world of work.

This Survey assessed the respective merits of introducing a universal basic income and streamlining the social benefit system in moving towards these objectives.

Table of contents
+ Basic statistics of Finland
+ Executive summary
+ Assessment and recommendations
+ Progress in structural reform
+ Tax reform to support growth and employment
+ Benefit reform for employment and equal opportunity

Website: OECD iLibrary http://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/

OECD: Economic Survey of Finland http://www.oecd.org/eco/surveys/economic-survey-finland.htm

OECD: Economic Survey of Finland 2018 (read only) https://www.keepeek.com//Digital-Asset-Management/oecd/economics/oecd-economic-surveys-finland-2018_eco_surveys-fin-2018-en#page1

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