There are fears that publicans could be hit with a significant hike in duties after next month's Budget announcement.
According to industry journal The Publican, there is likely to be a jump in the price of cider following a government review of duties on the drink. There has been pressure on the government to bring cider taxes back in line with those imposed on beer.
There are also concerns that all alcohol duties could be increased in an effort to contribute to the UK's ailing finances. It is thought that the British Beer & Pub Association will hold a meeting with Treasury officials next week to make its case.
As things currently stand, a pint of beer attracts duty of 46 pence. A pint of similar strength cider attracts just 18 pence. This discrepancy has come under the spotlight in recent months, with a Parliamentary select committee suggesting that it may have public health implications.
Pubs have fared particularly badly in recent years, with dozens forced into closure every week. Increases in duty are traditionally received particularly badly in the sector.
It is thought that the Budget announcement will be made in the third or fourth week of March.
