December budget provisions

Well done, Wine Board - a neat summary by e-mail, promptly.

Budget - Excise Duty Decreases Excise Duty on alcohol has been reduced with effect from midnight on 9th December and the standard rate of VAT will be decreased from 21.5% to 21.0% from 1st January 2010. The reductions, when VAT is included, amount to: • 12 cent on a pint of standard beer and cider • 8 cent on a 33cl bottle of beer (4.7% alcohol content) • 60 cent on a standard 75cl bottle of wine • 14 cent on a standard measure of spirits • €2.76 on a standard 70cl bottle of spirits (40% alcohol content) Revenue has stated that pro-rate reductions are being applied to other alcohol products. These changes are welcomed by the industry and, combined with the UK Government announcement that VAT will be increased from 15% to 17.5% on 1st January, will help reduce cross-border trade and protect jobs.