Serious Discrepancies Between the 'My Step' Faction and the Executive

'Hraparak' newspaper reports that there are serious discrepancies between the 'My Step' faction of the National Assembly and the Executive regarding changes to the Tax Code. Some lawmakers oppose certain amendments that have drawn criticism from experts.

In particular, it is planned to increase the excise tax rates on ethyl alcohol, spirits (excluding fruit-based spirits), beer, and tobacco products using IQOS technology starting from January 1, 2020. Additionally, excise tax will also apply to carbonated non-alcoholic beverages (excluding mineral waters), with the price of a bottle increasing by 30 drams. The state tax for pawnshops will increase 60 times, from 100,000 drams annually to 6 million drams, while the fee for exchange points will be raised from 50,000 drams to 3 million drams. Lawmakers say that even if they vote in favor, new amendments will be necessary in the short term. The Tax Code is expected to be discussed in the next parliamentary session.

For more details, see today's issue of the newspaper.