A Malmö-based restaurateur has criticized the upcoming food VAT cut from 12% to 6%, effective April 1. The change applies to groceries and takeout, but not restaurant meals. Hannes Kongstad of Kiosko import views it as benefiting large chains.
The 2026 state budget decided to reduce VAT on foodstuffs from 12% to 6% starting April 1. The reform covers food bought in stores, takeout, and takeaway coffee, but excludes meals eaten at restaurants.
Hannes Kongstad, part-owner of Kiosko import in Malmö, has voiced strong criticism. “It feels more like a service to the big food giants,” he told Sydsvenskan. He argues the cut benefits supermarkets at the expense of smaller players like restaurants.
The VAT reduction aims to put more money in consumers' pockets and boost the economy, per the budget decision. The criticism highlights divisions in how the reform impacts various segments of the food sector.
