Inscop poll: Most Romanians consider VAT reduction good measure for them and for economy

Most Romanians consider that the reduction in VAT for foodstuffs and non-alcoholic beverages represents a good measure both for them as well as for the economy, reveals an opinion barometer conducted by Inscop Research and commissioned by "Adevarul" daily.

Photo credit: (c) Cristian NISTOR / AGERPRES ARCHIVE

As many as 83.8 per cent of Romanians agree with the statement "reducing VAT on foodstuffs and non-alcoholic beverages is a good measure for me personally." Only 5.4 per cent have an opposing opinion, with the non-answers to this question standing at 10.8 per cent.

At the same time, 78.2 per cent of respondents agree that this measure is good for the economy, in general. As many as 5.9 per cent of Romanians express disapproval with this statement, whilst 15.9 per cent do not know or do not answer.

However, 34.5 per cent of respondents consider that "lower taxes and charges mean less money for healthcare, education and infrastructure," whereas 38.8 per cent disagree with this statement. Some 26.7 per cent do not have an opinion about this topic or refused to answer, which is indicative of the lack of information or understanding of the economic-budgetary mechanisms, the authors of the survey conclude.

According to the barometer, 37.7 per cent of Romanians believe that prices will be lower, but the slash in VAT will not be fully observed. 32.8 per cent consider that the prices of foodstuffs and non-alcoholic beverages will not decrease at all, and 19.3 per cent believe that these will go down, fully observing the VAT reduction.

Overall, 57 per cent of Romanians believe that the slash in the VAT on foodstuffs and non-alcoholic beverages will be felt in reducing the shelf prices.

The Government's decision to opt...