Industria Licorera de Caldas rechaza alza de impuestos a licores por impacto en empleo, recaudo y mercado legal

TL;DR

The Industria Licorera de Caldas (ILC) rejects tax increases on alcoholic beverages established by the National Government.
The company warns of adverse effects on the industry, employment, and regional revenue.
An increase in VAT from 5% to 19% for strong liquors and changes in consumption tax put the viability of the sector at risk.
Estimates suggest the liquor industry represents 1.5% of national GDP and generates over 200,000 jobs.
ILC fears the tax hikes will lead to an increase in the illegal liquor market, which currently accounts for about 24% of consumption.
The company highlighted that similar tax increases in other countries have shifted consumption to illegal channels rather than reducing it.
ILC has contributed approximately $1.2 trillion in consumption tax over the last two years to fund health and education in the regions.
These regional resources could be affected if legal liquor consumption declines and informality increases.
Departments may have to transfer surplus revenue from increased consumption tax to the National Government, rather than keeping it for regional use.
ILC remains committed to promoting responsible alcohol consumption and innovating its product portfolio with lower alcohol content options.

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