Regarding policies to mobilise domestic resources for development and improve fiscal conditions, Uruguay has made significant efforts by introducing the CO2 Specific Internal Tax on carbon emissions from petrol, alongside reductions or elimination of the IMESI tax on hybrid and electric vehicles. Policies limiting exemptions for rural property and wealth taxes on certain forests further support environmental goals. To alleviate the tax burden on lower-income taxpayers, Uruguay has increased deductions in the Personal Income Tax and raised the non-taxable minimum in the Social Security Assistance Tax. Moreover, adjustments to the progressive scales for the Tax on Income from Economic Activities aim to support micro and small businesses.
Regarding policies to advance a sound, inclusive and sustainable financial market, Uruguay has implemented a series of strategic initiatives with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. A key initiative is the issuance of the Climate Change Indicator Indexed Bond (BIICC) in October 2022. This bond directly ties the government’s financing strategy to achieving climate and nature-based objectives by 2025, featuring a novel two-way interest rate structure that adjusts based on Uruguay's environmental performance. The BIICC aims to complement the government's funding programme, diversify the investor base, and align sovereign financing with environmental goals. Additionally, the Sustainable Finance Roundtable, established in December 2021, serves as a platform for public and private sector collaboration to promote sustainable finance nationally. Supported by the Inter-American Development Bank and the United Nations system, this roundtable focuses on integrating environmental, social and governance criteria into financial practices. Furthermore, in November 2023, the World Bank approved a Climate Change Indicator-Indexed Loan, offering potential interest rate reductions if Uruguay exceeds its methane emission reduction targets in beef production. These initiatives co‑ordinated by the Ministry of Economy and Finance in partnership with other national institutions, underscore Uruguay's commitment to sustainable financial development and environmental stewardship. The government also introduced regulations to simplify the issuance of publicly offered securities, aiming to promote their use and revitalise the stock market. Other related incentives include the SIGA guaranteed loan program.
In terms of regional and international finance and partnerships to catalyse international resources, Uruguay has launched several strategic initiatives to bolster industrial competitiveness and leverage sustainable energy transitions. The Green Hydrogen Roadmap, introduced by the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining, aims to promote significant changes in energy sources and industrial raw materials and includes the establishment of a Single Investment Window for Green Hydrogen. Looking ahead to 2040, Uruguay aims to consolidate a green hydrogen industry capable of achieving an annual turnover of USD 1.9 billion and generating more than 30 000 quality jobs. This comprehensive strategy aligns Uruguay’s industrial development with global sustainability objectives, fostering economic growth and job creation through international private-sector investments in the green energy sector.