The Polish Ministry of Finance is suggesting lowering the excise tax on beer twice in 2004, the Polish press reported on September 3. Last year the tax was cut 30% and an increase in revenue was registered. The first cut is expected on January 1. Another cut may then follow if the results are positive in May, when Poland joins the EU. “The move is also prompted by the fear that Polish retailers would suffer from a grey market once Poland's borders are opened up to the rest of the EU,” the press said

"The beer and wine excise tax rate could well be altered. This is likely especially in the case of beer, which is subject to much heavier taxation here than in neighbouring countries,” Deputy Finance Minister Robert Kwasniak said.

04 September, 2003