TVA on Fruit

[Benjamin]

I've never taken a lot of notice before but having just returned from our local supermarket I notice that TVA has been charged at 5.5% on Italian grapes but Spanish clementines are charged at 19.6%.

Does anyone know the rules for TVA on food or is this just a mistake by the supermarket?

[Clair]

In

France, there are three rates of VAT. The code général des impôts sets out

that only essential goods and consumer goods such as unprocessed food

carry a reduced rate, other goods are taxed at 19.6%.

Generally speaking, food products are taxed at the reduced rate of 5.5%, so the Spanish clementines should be at the same rate as the Italian grapes.

[Benjamin]

Thanks Clair.

Strangely Wiki also quotes an alternative lower rate of 2.2% in France but it doesn't say when that applies.

I'll mention it in the shop the next time I'm in there.

[Clair]

AFAIK, a drop to 2.2% on fruit and veg has been discussed recently in conjunction with a rate increase to 19.6% on snacks and other "junk" food, in a bid to fight the increase in obesity.

The current economic crisis has put paid to the discussions.

[suein56]

[quote user="Benjamin"]Thanks Clair.

Strangely Wiki also quotes an alternative lower rate of 2.2% in France but it doesn't say when that applies.
[/quote]

Isn't that the rate that prescription medicines which have a vignette are charged at?

Sue