OREANDA-NEWS. May 30, 2011. The Parliament's standing commissions debated an initiative by Democrat MP Valeriu Guma, which proposes raising the minimum selling price of strong alcoholic drinks. The proposal is to be discussed in Parliament as well, Info-Prim Neo reports.

The lawmaker suggests raising the price of strong alcoholic beverages from 36 to 56 lei per liter for wholesale trade, and from 50 to 80 lei per liter for retail trade.

Valeriu Guma said this initiative should be adopted following the 50% rise in the excise duties on these products. He predicted that if the minimum prices are not amended, the market will be invaded by counterfeit drinks.

The Parliament's legal commission for appointments and immunities decided that they will approve the legislative initiative only if the Government approves it first.