The paradox of changing the value-added tax. Stores raise prices in order to lower them later

As we read in the daily newspaper, it is more and more evident that the government announces the reduction of the value-added tax on most food products from 5 percent. to zero may not bring any noticeable effect to customers. Companies are raising prices earlier so they can implement a cut next week.

In informal conversations, representatives of sellers emphasize that it is not a question of wanting to make money, but of necessity. Rzeczpospolita writes that businessmen who have been hurt by the increase in costs for energy, gas and raw materials are forced to raise their prices.

As the paper adds, the Bureau of Competition and Consumer Protection announced that the trade inspection body will control how the chains approach price cuts. After signs of the current increases, the bureau criticized the companies and called on consumers to avoid stores – in the opinion of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection – unethical businesses. However, prices are not officially set and companies decide what to sell and for what amount, Rzeczpospolita points out.

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