Currently, alcoholic beverages are subject to various tax rates, such as non-alcoholic beer with 0% alcohol content, according to Ekniti Nitithanprapas, director general of the Excise Department.
The study to adjust the structure of alcohol and beer taxes is not aimed at increasing taxes per se, but rather to categorise product types more clearly and accurately for proper taxation. For example, beer with 0% alcohol content might see a change in tax rate if it is reclassified as beer, which could potentially result in a reduced tax rate compared to its current classification as a general beverage. A consensus needs to be reached by all parties, including the Ministry of Public Health, for appropriate future tax collection, Ekniti explained.
The tax on soju is an issue because it is a distilled liquor that is often flavoured with fruits. While this blending reduces the alcohol…
