Qatar introduces 100% alcohol tax
World Cup 2022 host Qatar has introduced a 100% ‘sin tax’ on all alcohol products effective from 1 January 2019.
Sone alcohol prices in Qatar have doubled as of 1 January 2019The tax hike comes under the Selective Tax law, which was revealed in the country’s annual budget in December last year with an aim to impose taxes on “health-damaging goods”, including tobacco and energy drinks.
Reports suggest the tax hike has pushed the cost of a litre bottle of gin to 304 Qatari riyals (£73.25/US$93).
The tax increase was revealed when the Qatar Distribution Company, the country’s only alcohol store, released a statement on social media yesterday (1 January).
It is legal to buy alcohol in Qatar if you have a permit, and alcohol is served in licensed bars, clubs and hotels – though drinking in public is prohibited.
The statement said: “The State of Qatar, ministry of finance, tax department has advised that with effect from 1 January 2019, all alcohol and pork products imported into the State of Qatar will be subject to a 100% excise tax, calculated on the current retail sales price.
“This will result in a 100% price increase to QDC [Qatar Distribution Company] customers.”
