It’s decided: Excise tax on alcohol, tobacco, and sweetened beverages will increase 0 5

The bill is related to the state budget project for 2026 and the budget framework for the next three years.

The amendments provide for a phased increase in excise tax starting next year for several groups of goods, including alcoholic beverages, tobacco, non-alcoholic, and energy drinks. Additionally, in two years, it is planned to abolish the reduced excise tax rate on petroleum products used in free ports and special economic zones.

Starting from March 15 of next year, the excise tax will increase on strong alcohol, and from March 1, 2028, it will apply to all alcoholic beverages. The final price of strong alcohol will increase by €0.51, wine by €0.15 to €0.30, and beer by €0.03 per bottle.

Next year and from 2027, a sharper increase in rates on all tobacco products is expected — 5% more than previously planned. Compared to current prices, starting from 2028, a pack of cigarettes will cost €2.20 more, reaching €7.50. For heated tobacco, the increase will be €0.35 per pack, and a 2 ml pack of e-liquid will rise by €0.15.

From 2028, excise tax will also apply to sweetened and energy drinks. A separate excise rate will be introduced for energy drinks.

Also, from 2028, excise tax will be levied on non-alcoholic carbonated beverages prepared on-site in catering establishments. Until now, excise tax on carbonated and non-carbonated drinks prepared for immediate consumption has not been applied.

Changes will also affect petroleum products — from 2028, the reduced tax rate on petroleum products used in free ports and special economic zones will be abolished. To promote the use of renewable and more environmentally friendly energy, including electricity, a general excise tax rate is planned to be applied instead of the previous benefits. Existing benefits for fuel can be used by entrepreneurs until the end of 2027.