Acting Customs and Excise Minister Jim Anderton defended the inclusion of fortified wines in the government's tax increase on light spirits.
Winegrowers' chief executive Philip Gregan says port and sherry are not the drinks chosen by young people and producers of those wines are the victims of collateral damage of a move aimed at reducing binge drinking by young people. Anderton says all high alcohol drinks that are modestly priced were targeted in an effort to be consistent and effective.
Anderton also questioned claims that the extra excise could put some small winemakers out of business.
Source: RNZ
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