Gastronomy Under Pressure - Vogt Seeks Relief for Businesses - FDP pushes for 7% VAT on restaurant meals to ease hospitality sector strain
Christopher Vogt, leader of the Free Democratic Party (FDP) in Schleswig-Holstein, is urging the state government to back a VAT cut for the hospitality industry. He wants restaurant meals taxed at 7% instead of the current 19%, arguing that the change would ease financial pressure on struggling businesses. The call comes as rising costs and tighter budgets squeeze both customers and owners across the sector.
Vogt highlighted the growing challenges faced by restaurants, cafés, and hotels. He pointed to soaring expenses, shrinking customer spending, and excessive bureaucracy as key issues. The current system also taxes food differently depending on whether it’s eaten on-site or taken away—a rule he called unfair, as takeaway meals already benefit from the lower 7% rate.
A decision on the VAT cut will be made during the Bundesrat vote on December 19. If approved, the reduction could lower costs for both businesses and customers. The move would also align with existing support measures already in place for the hospitality business in Schleswig-Holstein.
