Ecuador temporarily eliminates beer tax for World Cup, cutting prices more than 20%
President Daniel Noboa ordered the suspension of the special consumption tax on beer and other moderate-alcohol drinks until July 19, a move that will lower retail prices by over 20% during the tournament.
The announcement
President Daniel Noboa made the policy pledge during a public event in the coastal town of El Empalme on Thursday, wearing the yellow jersey of the national team. He said the temporary elimination of the Impuesto a los Consumos Especiales (ICE) on all beverages of moderation, including beer, was an extra gesture of government support for Ecuador's World Cup campaign.
That way the price of beer will drop more than 20% and each of you will be able to enjoy the World Cup in the best way, with an exceptional team like the one we have, which will go very far.
Tax break details
The ICE is a targeted consumption tax applied to goods such as artisan and industrial beer. Noboa did not specify the exact date the measure would take effect, only that it would remain in place until July 19, the final day of the tournament. The government has released no regulatory note on the mechanics of the suspension.
All the beverages of moderation, including beer, we are going to remove the ICE during the World Cup.
Ecuador's World Cup campaign
Ecuador is playing in its fifth World Cup and sits in Group E alongside Germany, Curaçao and Ivory Coast. Its opening match is Sunday in Philadelphia against Ivory Coast. The global tournament's inauguration takes place Friday in the United States, one of three host nations with Mexico and Canada.
- President Noboa announces temporary beer tax suspension
- World Cup inauguration in the United States
- Ecuador vs Ivory Coast, Philadelphia
- Tax suspension ends with the World Cup final
President's travel and criticism
Noboa made the announcement shortly before departing for an official visit to the United States that will last until Monday. The presidency has not disclosed his itinerary, but the trip coincides with the World Cup opening and Ecuador's first match. The president has been criticized for frequent international travel since taking office in November 2023; this year he has already visited the Dominican Republic, Chile, the United Arab Emirates, Panama, Switzerland and Belgium. He has dismissed the criticism, saying the trips aim to attract investment and finalize agreements.
