Romanian Fast-Food Tax Won’t Target Pizza, Shawarma, Mineral Water – Health Ministry

"We don't want to levy taxes on cheese, dairy products, pizza or shawarma. On the other hand, the fast food tax might be applied to products rich in fats and sugar, as well as to fizzy drinks, except mineral water and natural juice," Streinu Cercel said.

Research has shown the number of people suffering from obesity is on the rise and children are the most affected.

Romania's Health Ministry organizes Thursday a public debate on the draft law reforming the health sector and introducing a tax on fast-food.

Romania's food industry employers' federation Romalimenta organized a debate on the tax Monday, during which federation head Sorin Minea said the proposed tax on fast food would raise food prices by an average 20% and the increase could even top 30% on certain products.

The tax could prompt the industry to shed 20% of employees, leaving 36,000 people jobless, people in the food industry said.

The list of unhealthy foods will be approved by a Government decision according to the draft law introducing the tax on fast food. The level of the tax will be established after talks between the Health Ministry and companies producing or importing unhealthy food.

If you liked this story, please follow MEDIAFAX.RO on FACEBOOK »

The content of mediafax.ro is for your information only. Republishing or using this content is forbidden without express consent of MEDIAFAX. For this consent, please ask for it by mail at vanzari@mediafax.ro.