The disclosed internal combustion engine is equipped with an exhaust treatment device, which is provided to the exhaust path, and a burner device for increasing the exhaust temperature, which is provided upstream of the exhaust treatment device. When the flow rate of the exhaust gas passing through the burner device is at or above a designated value, the valve drive status of an intake valve and/or an exhaust valve is controlled so as to reduce the flow rate of the exhaust gas. Thus it is possible to prevent or curb extinguishing of the flame in the burner device and ensure sufficient ignition performance.