Facing looming rises in food prices, the Social Association Germany (SoVD) has called on the federal government to lower the value‑added tax (VAT) on a timely basis. “Reliable and healthy nutrition must be affordable for everyone and should not depend on how much money one has” said SoVD chairwoman Michaela Engelmeier in an interview with the “Rheinische Post” Sunday edition. She added that clear political measures are now needed to genuinely relieve consumers.

In particular, Engelmeier highlighted “[making] basic food items cheaper, for example by cutting the VAT”. She stressed that the relief must truly reach people, not just stay on paper.