Multiple Governments Prepare 2026 Draft Budgets Amid Fiscal Challenges

Several countries and regions are preparing their budgets for the 2026 fiscal year with a focus on balancing financial responsibilities and addressing key sectors. Qatar's Shura Council's Financial and Economic Affairs Committee began reviewing the draft state budget for 2026, planning to continue its examination. India's Ministry of Finance has invited industry and trade associations to submit detailed suggestions for the 2026-27 Union Budget on direct and indirect taxes, emphasizing economic justification and data support. The Welsh government intends to publish details of its upcoming £27 billion budget, which includes increased funding but faces concerns from local governments about adequacy. Bulgaria's 2026 budget will be balanced and conservative, with no major changes expected in revenues or expenditures, and preparations are underway for euro adoption; it plans salary increases in education and healthcare sectors while emphasizing financial and political stability.