Public Health Purpose of the New Excise Amendments
Latvia’s parliament approved amendments to the Excise Tax Law to make alcoholic products more expensive starting in 2026. According to Latvian Public Media, the Saeima declared that the goal is to reduce the use of unhealthy products and to secure additional revenue for the state budget. This policy direction aligns with evidence, which shows that better alcohol taxation in Europe could save an estimated 130,000 lives every year. Research also illustrates that Latvia has been moving toward better alcohol taxation in recent years as part of a broader commitment to health promotion through alcohol policy.
Planned Alcohol Price Increases
In fact, Latvian Public Media reports that the Saeima approved a gradual price increase for alcoholic products over the next several years. From March 15, 2026, the tax rate for strong alcohol will rise. From March 1, 2028, excise duty will increase for all alcoholic beverages.
For instance, price changes from 2028 include:
- Strong alcohol: €0.51 increase.
- Wine: €0.15–€0.30 increase depending on alcohol content.
- Beer: €0.03 per bottle increase.
Tobacco and E-Liquid Tax Measures
Latvian Public Media also reports that tobacco taxation will accelerate next year and again from 2027 onwards. The tax rate will grow five percent above original plans to tackle Latvia’s tobacco burden.
Price increases from 2028 include:
- A pack of cigarettes: €2.20 rise, reaching €7.50.
- Heated tobacco: €0.35 increase per pack.
- A two‑milliliter package of e‑liquid: €0.15 increase.
Sweetened and Energy Drinks Also Included
Another important part of the Latvian modernisation of taxes on health harming products addresses the harms of sugar-sweetened and energy drinks. According to Latvian Public Media, from 2028, excise duty will increase for sweetened beverages. A separate excise duty rate will also apply to energy drinks.
The amendments will also apply excise tax to non-alcoholic carbonated beverages prepared on-site in public catering establishments. Previously, beverages prepared for immediate consumption were exempt. This closing of loopholes reflects a comprehensive approach following World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations, which call for pro‑health taxation across harmful product categories.
Why These Measures Matter for Health Promotion
Latvia’s move fits within a growing international pattern of governments using fair and smart taxation of alcohol and other health harming products to support health promotion and fairness. Studies report that alcohol taxation is the most effective tools to prevent and reduce alcohol harm, especially as alcohol harm poses a heavy burden on Latvian society.
By increasing the price of alcohol, including wine and beer, Latvia elevates its commitment to protecting people’s health and reducing pressure on families and communities affected by alcohol harm. The new measures also help address alcohol harm experienced by children from families facing alcohol use disorder and addiction, for example.
Latvia’s updated Excise Tax Law represents an evidence-based step toward modern, comprehensive alcohol policy. The facts reported by Latvian Public Media show a clear trajectory: higher excise taxes, improved public investment, and a commitment to preventing the harm caused by alcohol products. Coupled with research insights on the life-saving potential of fair alcohol taxation, Latvia’s decision demonstrates how political leadership can advance population health and promote a brighter future for people in Latvia.