The ESO said imported spirits have little chance of competing in the Philippine market due to the high taxes imposed on them. A statement from the organisation said: “Depending on the net retail price of the imported product, the tax charged on it can be up to 50 times more than the tax applied to local brands. The EU has asked that its request be considered by the WTO at a meeting on 21 December.
“The problem has existed from as early as 1995, exacerbated by legislation introduced by the Philippine government in 1997 and 2004 resulting in an excise tax increase of 30% for locally-produced spirits and 50% for imported spirits. As a consequence EU exports experienced a spectacular decline with their value plummeting by almost €30 million; from €48 million in 2003 to €18 million in 2007.”
Jamie Fortescue, director general of the European Spirits Organisation said: “Spirit producers are disappointed that the WTO consultations with the Philippines were unsuccessful. The decision of the EU to push ahead and request a panel is therefore welcome news. We hope the Philippines now take the necessary action to reform its tax system and align itself with international trade rules so that European spirits are able to compete in the market.”
