Rostock's Mayor Kröger: School meals threaten to become a luxury good
The Mayor of Rostock, Eva-Maria Kröger (Left Party), is calling for the reduced VAT rate to be retained for meals in daycare centers, schools and canteens. The return to 19 instead of 7 percent VAT on food in restaurants announced by the German government for January would lead to a significant increase in costs for food providers, Kröger explained on Monday. It is to be feared that for many people a school or canteen meal will become a luxury item.
Minister President Manuela Schwesig (SPD) had also recently addressed the issue, as daycare centers, schools, hospitals and nursing homes would also be affected by an increase in VAT in the catering sector. "An additional burden on families and senior citizens is the wrong decision," Schwesig said.
In light of the proposed VAT increase, the hospitality industry may face increased costs, potentially leading some to view meals at municipal restaurants and cafes as luxury items for households. This VAT hike also poses a concern for other sectors reliant on catering, such as hospitals and schools.
Source: www.dpa.com
