Wine Tax Cut in Thailand Triggers Consumption Surge, Controversy

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Wine Tax Cut in Thailand Triggers Consumption Surge, Controversy

Thailand’s 2024 tax exemption on imported wine has triggered a 300% surge in mid-range wine consumption and over 10% growth in wine imports—mainly benefiting foreign producers. However, this boom has come at a cost: nearly 600 million baht in lost tax revenue and estimated social costs of over 10 billion baht due to increased accidents and domestic issues. Critics, including Senator Lae Dilokvidhyarat, argue the policy favours luxury consumers and harms public welfare, sparking debate over its long-term impact on Thailand’s economy and society.