Romanian beer producers demand stable fiscal regime, without new or increased taxes for 2022

Beer remains one of the most successful products in Romania, and the industry strives to support the development of the entire value chain, even in the context of the unprecedented challenges posed by the health crisis and the crisis of raw materials and supply chains. The beer industry continues to make a significant contribution to Romania’s economic and social development through investment, the jobs it creates and the constant contributions to state and local budgets, by supporting local farmers and by promoting sustainable food and beverage initiatives. environmental protection, say the representatives of the Romanian Brewers Association, meeting with the main decision makers in an online debate that took place on December 7th.

The rapid spread of the coronavirus pandemic is an unprecedented challenge to human health and well-being, but also to the business environment. The measures implemented by the authorities and the long periods in which these measures are in force affect the beer industry throughout the chain. At European level, the pandemic has caused 860,000 job losses, a 25% drop in the overall value added of beer to the European economy and a 23% drop in government revenue.

“Romania is the 8th beer market in Europe, which proves that through innovation and flexibility the local beer sector has a significant contribution to the Romanian and European economy. Due to its national character, defined by the fact that over 97% of the beer consumed in Romania is produced locally and 50% of the ingredients come from the country, the beer sector manages to generate a real chain of positive effects for the economy,” said Paul Barnett, President of the Romanian Brewers Association.

In the context of discussions on the evolution of the last two years and the outlook, Romanian beer producers demand a stable tax regime that reflects the positive impact of the industry on the entire value chain, from “cereals to glasses” and without new or increased taxes for next year.

Present at the event, Adrian Caciu, Minister of Public Finance reiterated that he does not intend to increase taxes or introduce new taxes in this area, adding that economic incentives should go to those who are fair to the state, respectively industries where there is no tax evasion, such as the beer industry. “Those who have a problem will find formulas even through the accelerated digitization of our institutions to be able to benefit from facilities when they return to normal. The business community does not have to worry, those who pay their taxes will benefit from programs and policies that will help them to develop further. Those who are wrong about the economy will have the fear of taxation, for them there will be zero tolerance at the Ministry of Finance,” said Caciu.