By Olivia Snaije
France’s new Minister of Culture, AurĂ©lie Filippetti confirmed today that the VAT rate for books would return to 5.5%, following its raise to 7% just two months ago in April under Nicolas Sarkozy’s government. Following a meeting with booksellers and regional authorities, Ms. Filippetti said the future of bookshops and in particular independent bookshops would be one of her priorities.
She also welcomed deliberations made by the Centre National du Livre (National Book Center) and industry professionals to help independent bookstores find solutions for online digital sales.