Regulation of production, sales and taxation of still wines in the Czech Republic – stakeholder analysis

This thesis focuses on the analysis of the regulation of the production and sale of alcohol in the Czech Republic with an emphasis on the influence of interest groups on public policy making. The aim of this thesis is to analyse the influence of lobbying and individual stakeholders on the decision-making process regarding the introduction of excise duty on still wines. The current case of the introduction of an excise duty on still wines serves as a case study that uses a practical example to show a concrete example of lobbying activities in the field of alcohol policy. The paper maps the current legislation and identifies key issues related to the taxation of still wine, which remains exempt from excise duty. The analysis shows the contrast between proponents and opponents of the excise tax, with arguments supporting the introduction of the tax highlighting the need for fiscal reform. On the other hand, opponents, especially wine organisations, warn of the negative impact on domestic production and the threat to the competitiveness of the Czech wine industry. The main actor in this debate is the Union of Winegrowers of the Czech Republic, which is actively advocating against the introduction of this tax. The results of the thesis confirm the importance of lobbying in shaping public policy and show its power in influencing decision-making processes. Lobbying activities, especially by the Winegrowers' Association, have a direct impact on political decisions.