New French Government Drops VAT on Books From 7% to 5.5%

In What's the Buzz by Olivia Snaije

By Olivia Snaije

France’s new Minister of Culture, Aurélie 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.

About the Author

Olivia Snaije

Olivia Snaije is a journalist and editor based in Paris who writes about the Middle East, multiculturalism, translation, literature, and graphic novels. She is a contributor to newspapers and magazines including The Guardian, Harper’s Bazaar Art, The Global Post, The New York Times and CNN.