Klingbeil plans to raise alcohol tax by 20 percent

27.06.2026 12:00 HotInfo

German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil plans to raise the alcohol tax by 20 percent starting next year. This follows from parts of a draft law, according to which the rate should increase from 13.03 euros to 15.64 euros per liter of pure alcohol. Die Zeit ↗

The change would mainly affect spirits. According to calculations, a bottle of high-proof alcohol could become more expensive by approximately 87 cents. Drinks such as vodka, whisky, and sparkling wine could also become more expensive. Conversely, according to available information, beer and wine are not expected to become more expensive as a result of this adjustment. Deutschlandfunk ↗

Klingbeil's proposal comes after recommendations from an expert commission on health policy, which had pushed for a more significant increase in the tax burden on alcohol. However, according to available reports, the finance minister is opting for a more moderate approach. Health Minister Nina Warken, meanwhile, expects the additional revenue to go to her ministry. n-tv ↗

The proposal still has to go through the legislative process. If approved, the change will be reflected in the prices of selected alcoholic beverages in 2027 and will also open up a broader discussion about whether tax policy should primarily serve the budget or also curb alcohol consumption. Tagesspiegel ↗