Decreases in the deficit compared to the first quarter of 2021 were observed, but the deficit remains at a high level. The deficit to GDP ratio decreased mainly due to a higher GDP, while both expenditure and revenue increased in absolute terms in comparison with the first quarter of 2021. Total revenue and total expenditure continued to be influenced by policy responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the second quarter of 2021, most Member States continued to record a government deficit. In the second quarter of 2021, total government revenue in the euro area amounted to 46.2% of GDP, a decrease compared with 46.7% in the first quarter of 2021. Seasonally adjusted total revenue in the euro area increased by around €17 billion compared with the first quarter of 2021. Total government expenditure in the euro area stood at 53.1% of GDP, a decrease in the ratio compared with 53.8% in the previous quarter. Seasonally adjusted total government expenditure increased by around €15 billion compared with the first quarter of 2021. In the EU, total government revenue was 46.0% of GDP in the second quarter of 2021, a decrease compared with 46.4% in the first quarter of 2021. Total government expenditure in the EU was 52.3% of GDP, a decrease compared with 52.9% of GDP in the previous quarter.