NGM: the Council of the Elderly initiated the expansion of the range of products subject to VAT refunds

The NGM emphasized that the government is taking decisive action against unjustified price increases and price gougers. In order to reduce food prices, the government is fighting not only with the official maximization of margins applicable by retail chains, but also with VAT refunds for pensioners.

As a reminder, the government has undertaken to refund VAT up to HUF 10,000-15,000 per month on dairy products, vegetables and fruits. Pensioners can use this in an extremely simple way, using a discount card, and the refund amount will automatically arrive in cash or by transfer to a bank account with the next pension.

The VAT refund ensures that the discount does not increase the profits of retail chains that raise prices, but directly helps pensioners. The measure will provide assistance to 2.5 million pensioners.

It was announced that the Council of the Elderly has initiated consultations on how this refund can be applied to pensioners as widely as possible. The Council of the Elderly has made several proposals, including expanding the range of affected foods, such as dairy products, meat, fish, bakery products, flour, sugar, cooking oil and eggs.