Spirits Romania is criticizing a new 24% excise tax hike on spirits, saying it affects local producers and encourages the black market.

Spirits Romania representatives oppose a new excise tax hike on spirits, which would add 24% in just 13 months, on top of previous increases. Although the spirits industry contributes significantly to the state budget, with 62% of excise duties on alcohol, this measure could lead to the closure of local businesses and the proliferation of the black market. Florin Rădulescu, the association's president, points out that a more effective approach would be to combat tax evasion, given that previous increases have led to a decline in the taxed market.