A proposal from Hacienda Minister Vicente Bengoa that would relax taxes on certain products is now in the hands of President Leonel Fernandez who will address the country on the issue later this week.

The proposal, drafted with the help of Internal Taxes Director Juan Hernandez, is expected to mainly deal with rum and beer taxes as these producers have felt the brunt of reduced sales due to higher taxation. But the official made it clear that not only these product groups are included but others who have also been adversely affected.

The relaxation measures proposed will not change the law that first introduced these taxes.