Thailand Finance Ministry’s Excise Department has confirmed that it is not planning to increase tax on beer, spirits or energy drinks.
The announcement was made in response to recent rumours that alcoholic beverage makers were planning to increase their retail price by Bt 20-30 (US$0.60-US$0.90) in line with upcoming tax measures.
The Excise Department is monitoring any increase in retail prices and has recently spoken to energy drinks producer, Osotspa Co Ltd that it will continue to maintain the retail price of its drinks at Bt 10 (US$0.30) per bottle. However, the company is planning a new product which will be sold at a higher price, i.e. at Bt 12 (US$0.36) per bottle.
Major liquor operators have also confirmed that there are no plans to increase the retail price of their products.
The Excise Department will check the retail prices of all spirits, beer and energy drinks from 14-17 March before announcing a new recommended retail price. If the supplier wishes to adjust their prices, they must inform the Excise Department first.
