Denmark Considers Eliminating VAT on Books

The Danish government is considering eliminating VAT on books, which currently stands at 25%. The aim is to encourage reading, as announced by Minister of Culture Jakob Engel-Schmidt.

"The government proposes in the budget bill to abolish VAT on books," the minister told Ritzau news agency, explaining that the abolition would cost the state 330 million kroner (44.2 million euros) annually.

According to a Pisa report by the OECD, Danish students aged 15 show increased deficiencies in reading skills. Denmark has the highest VAT rate on books in Europe, while other countries have reduced rates or zero VAT, such as Britain.

Danish publishers support the abolition of VAT, believing that, combined with increased book purchases for libraries, it will strengthen the culture of reading.

Source: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ