VAT hikes: plain souvlaki 13% – plain souvlaki with salt 23%
HA! The legislator knows much better when a plain souvlaki is a plain souvlaki! A plain souvlaki grilled on the skewer consists of plain meat cubes. It is sold with with 13% Value Added Tax. However, as of today and the new V.A.T. hikes in effect, a plain souvlaki turns into a “processed product” if salt is added. Without regret, the legislator charges another 10% V.A.T. for the simple hand move that turns the plain souvlaki cubes into a delicacy.
This is a real fact in the real Greek surreal story of VAT hikes and Agreements with Creditors and never ending debt loaded with new debt and loans.
Rumors that another 10% VAT for black ground pepper, a 10% VAT for fragrant oregano and an additional 10% VAT for some splashes of fresh lemon juice are claimed to belong to the sphere of pure and sick phantasy. Legislators are not like that, aren’t they?
Fact is however, that they managed to implement a 10% VAT hike to Greeks’ most holly snack: the souvlaki. Although it should and is considered basic food and the cheapest option for dine out.
It’s the pinch of salt that makes the difference in taste and the wallet.
I have no idea whether the VAT will be 10% or 23%, if the customer says “just very little bit of salt” or whether customers will be allowed to bring their salt & pepper along in the souvlaki tavern.
I also have no idea about the VAT for Souvlaki wrapped in pitta bread with tomatoes, onions, parsley and tzatziki sauce. With all this craziness I wouldn’t be surprised if the VAT is 67% of something. Just kidding…
PS I just think of all the thousands souvlaki taverns and grills that opened amid the economic crisis as it was considered a damned sure business because “the Greek will never stop eating Souvlaki.”
I also think of all the low-pensioners who have a souvlaki-pitta bread as the cheapest lunch or dinner to still their hunger for just 2 euros.
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