Slovakia – proposed increase in VAT rate on foods with high sugar and salt content

Slovakia plans to increase a VAT rate applicable to food with high content of sugar and salt from 19% to 23%. This includes among others, chocolate, biscuits, cakes, jams, ice creams and salty snacks.

The aim of this change is to encourage population to eat healthy food in order to reduce obesity and diabetes.

If approved the change in the VAT rate will be effective from January 2026.