Norwegian tax reform casts doubt on duty-free licences, reports

Gavin Lipsith

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A review of the country’s liquor tax regulations could lead to a revoking of duty-free licences at airports and on ferries, according to JustDrinks.com

The Norwegian government's Committee on Tax Reform (CTR) has proposed a new tax initiative that would effectively lead to the revoking of licences that currently allow the sale of duty-free alcohol at the country's airports and on passenger ferries operating in Norwegian territorial waters, according to JustDrinks.com

Prime minister Jens Stoltenberg told parliament: "We are awaiting a report from the committee quite soon. This will be an important signpost for future reforms within the area of alcohol sale in Norway. The continuance of duty-free sales in their present format will also be looked at.”
If correct the reports could spell trouble for Gebr Heinemann’s joint venture at Norway’s international airports, Travel Retail Norway, as well as several ferry operators in the region.

The CTR was to have presented its initial report on possible reforms at the end of June. Thie report, also expected to propose a 10% increase in taxes on spirits and beer, is now expected in September or October.

RavenFox.com is seeking to verify and substantiate the reports. Keep an eye on this website for more details and reaction from travel retailers.