OREANDA-NEWS. August 22, 2011. Belarus may increase excise tax rates on vodka to 30,000 Belarusian rubles (Br) per liter of absolute alcohol in the period September 1 through October 31 and to 39,000 rubles November 1 through December 31, in accordance with a draft presidential ordinance, a source in the administration of the country told reporters.

“The same rates will be introduced for all strong drinks with alcohol content between 7% and 28%, and over 28%, except for wine, cider, beer and beer cocktails.”

This rate will also apply to cognac, brandy, calvados and other drinks with alcohol content over 28%, and on original beverages produced in folk centers.

The excise rates on original grape wines are expected to be set at 28,000 rubles and 30,000 rubles on September 1 and November 1, respectively, on fortified premium wines of improved quality 7,740 rubles and 11,370 rubles, on fruit and berry natural wines 220 rubles and 380 rubles, on ciders 480 rubles and 540 rubles, on fortified fruit and grape wines 16,000 rubles and 30,000 rubles.

The excise rates on beer with alcohol content between 0.5% and 7% may be raised to 1,000 rubles of September 1 and 1,600 rubles on November 1, and on beer with alcohol content above 7%, to 2,000 rubles and 2,250 rubles.