The Serbian Parliament has approved changes to excise tax legislation that will see the introduction of higher taxes on alcoholic drinks from the start of next year.
As of 1 January 2016, Serbian consumers will pay RSD 24 (€0.20) excise tax per liter of beer and a RSD 21 (€0.17) excise tax on low-alcoholic drinks (such as ciders and perry). Excise will be paid on all kinds of beer, except for alcohol-free beer that contains up to 0.5% of alcohol regardless of packing.
According to a statement issued by the Serbian Government, the increase of excise for alcohol drinks will amount to 2%. The changes to the law were adopted as part of a package of financial legislative measures announced in the country's 2016 Budget.
The Serbian government expects additional budget revenues of RSD 6 billion (€49 million) as a result of both the new alcohol excise and an increased fuel tax.
© 2015 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Branislav Pekic. To subscribe to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine, click here.
