Austrian pet shops call for reduction in VAT

The Austrian pet trade is clearly in favour of reducing VAT on pet food. Due to rising costs in other sectors, a reduction in VAT would be an important signal for the national pet trade, particularly in order to counteract cross-border price pressure.

‘Specialist shops not only stand for regional value creation and secure jobs, but also for qualified advice, responsible sales and high quality standards,’ says Andreas Popper, spokesperson for the domestic pet trade professional group of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO). A reduction would enable domestic pet retailers to offer their customers high-quality pet food at lower prices.

A reduction would also provide significant relief for consumers. At least one pet lives in every second household in Austria. This means that around 5 million pets are kept in Austria. ‘In view of rising living costs, more and more pet owners are coming under financial pressure. Caring for their beloved pets should not become a luxury for Austrians,’ says Popper.

For pet owners, pets are members of the family. High-quality, needs-based nutrition is a key prerequisite for the health of pets and therefore a basic need for owners. ‘A reduction in VAT from the current 13 per cent to 10 per cent would provide noticeable relief for every household,’ says Popper. ‘The measure would therefore be a sensible and tangible relief for both pet shops and consumers.’