Less Taxes on Draught Beer and Cider as Duty Overhaul Takes Effect

But trade association warns reform discriminates against wine and spirits

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during a visit to the Great British Beer Festival at Olympia, in London on Aug. 1, 2023. Daniel Leal/PA

Pubs will pay less taxes on draught beer and cider as the government’s alcohol duty overhaul took effect on Tuesday.

But the landmark tax shake-up, which favours drinks with lower alcohol content, will impose more duty on wine and spirits.