The Latvian parliament, the Saeima, has approved amendments raising the excise taxes on alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and sweetened beverages as of 2026, BNS reports. The aim is to reduce the consumption of products that are harmful to the environment and health, LSM reports. The excise duty on strong alcoholic beverages will rise as of 15 March 2026 and on all alcoholic beverages as of 1 March 2028. The end price of strong alcoholic beverages will go up by EUR 0.51, of wine by EUR 0.15-0.30, and of beer by EUR 0.03 per bottle. Also, the tax on all tobacco products will increase faster than previously planned. As a result, the price of a cigarette pack will rise by EUR 2.20 to EUR 7.50 as of 2028. Moreover, the excise tax on sweetened beverages will increase and energy drinks will be subject to a separate tax rate.
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