ArmInfo.Fighting smoking in any country is economically beneficial, including in Armenia - raising the price of tobacco products will lead not only to a reduction in their consumption, but also to additional tax revenues. On March 11, during the meeting of the Commission on Human Rights and Public Affairs, Armenian Healthcare Minister Arsen Torosyan stated
The Minister also noted that from July 1, 2019, according to the changes in the Tax Code, it is planned to expand the range of products that will be subject to excise tax. In this list will fall and drinks, 100 grams of which contain 5 or more grams of sugar. "This will lead to an increase in prices for such drinks, and, as a result, a reduction in their consumption," said Torosyan.
On the question of whether the Minister is ready to hold talks with the manufacturers of carbonated drinks protesters outside the government building, Torosyan said that there is nothing to discuss. "If we care about health, then this tax should apply to all beverages containing sugar," Torosyan said.
To note, today in front of the government building of Armenia, a protest rally was held by representatives of companies producing carbonated drinks. Representatives of these companies are protesting against an increase in excise tax, which, in turn, will lead to an increase in the cost of carbonated beverages, and as a result to a decrease in their consumption.
To recall, in accordance with the proposed amendments to the Tax Code of Armenia, it is envisaged to soon apply the excise tax for drinks that contain sugar, as well as flavoring and aromatic additives.