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The Senate strikes hard: VAT on bottled water rises from 5.5% to 20%

Le 28 November 2024A turning point has been reached in French tax policy on bottled water. The senators have voted for a drastic increase in VAT, raising its reduced rate from 5.5% to 20%. The measure is designed to encourage people to drink tap water and to point the finger at the dubious practices of manufacturers in the sector.

Why this measure?

At the heart of this decision is a scandal involving Nestlé Watersa subsidiary of the Swiss food giant. Last January, the brand admitted to using prohibited disinfection processes to guarantee the "food safety" of its mineral waters. These revelations triggered a senatorial committee of enquiryThis is the first time the company has called into question the practices of the major bottled water companies.

According to Hervé Gillé, Socialist Senator:
"At a time when the management of natural resources and ecological issues are crucial, this tax reform is necessary".

Additional revenue for the State

The increase in VAT could bring in between 150 and 300 million euros per yearaccording to the senators' projections. However, this increase does not apply to bottled water sold overseas, which will retain its reduced rate.

A strong ecological signal

In addition to the income generated, this measure is part of an approach aimed at reduce the use of plastic and encourage more responsible consumption. Bottled water is often criticised for its ecological footprint, particularly because of the millions of tonnes of plastic waste it generates.

A healthy, sustainable alternative: water purifiers

In this context, solutions such as LAVIE water purifiers have established themselves as an ecological and economical option. Using patented UV-A technology, our devices purify tap water without filters or chemicals, giving you healthy, great-tasting water.

Advantages of LAVIE purifiers :

Eliminates the unpleasant taste and smell of chlorine.
Total absence of plastic waste.
Simple to use, no costly maintenance.

The experts' opinion

While Laurent Saint-Martin, the French Minister for Public Accounts, is critical of the use of VAT as an incentive, supporters of the measure hail an approach that combines tax justice and ecological sensitivity.

At the same time, initiatives such as LAVIE show that it is possible to take local action to offer a better quality of life. sustainable alternative and reduce the impact of plastic bottles on the environment.

This fiscal upheaval marks a turning point in the management of water resources in France, paving the way for more responsible consumption patterns. Between appropriate taxation and innovative technological solutions, the transition to a world less dependent on plastic seems to have begun.

Article written on 04/12/2024 by Pascal Nuti - CIO Solable - Passionate about energy, I'm constantly on the lookout for new targets for improvement, exploring cross-disciplinary paths using novel methods.