Brazil’s Federal Budget Office revised its 2023 fiscal outlook, lowering the projected deficit to R$ 141.4 billion ($28.7 billion) from R$ 145.4 billion ($29.6 billion).
Accordingly, this represents 1.3% of GDP, a slight drop from 1.4%.
Next, the office announced an additional budget cut. They will slash R$ 600 million ($122 million) from discretionary expenses this time.
This type of spending covers public operations and investments. With this cut, total reductions have reached R$ 3.8 billion ($772 million).
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva needs to formalize these cuts. A decree is necessary for this step. The government sees a pressing need to cut spending.
Meanwhile, revenue collections are dwindling. Federal Revenue data shows a 4.14% real-term decline in August.
The total for that month was R$ 172.785 billion ($35.1 billion).
August marked the fourth monthly decline in revenue for 2023. Previous drops occurred in June and July, measuring 3.4% and 4.2%, respectively.
Federal tax collections from January to August amounted to R$ 1.517 trillion ($308.3 billion).
Adjusted for inflation, this value was R$ 1.531 trillion ($310.9 billion). In real terms, this is a contraction of 0.83%.
Background
This fiscal update holds implications for Brazil’s economic policy. First, it reflects a cautious approach by the government.
Trimming the deficit forecast and slashing discretionary spending are proactive steps. Yet, they also suggest fiscal stress.
The office seems keen on avoiding bigger economic pitfalls.
Simultaneously, dwindling revenues show cause for concern. Four months of declines point to a troubling trend.
A falling tax base often precedes economic downturns. Thus, there’s a need for other revenue streams or cost-saving methods.
The decrees still await the President’s formal approval. They will help the budget if approved but might hinder public services and investments.
In sum, Brazil is balancing on a financial tightrope. The choices made now will affect its fiscal health and public welfare for years to come.