With Brexit looming larger as the UK’s new government takes charge, the publishing industry steps up its drive to drop the VAT on ebooks and digital content
European Publishing Welcomes ECOFIN’s Decision on Taxation for Ebooks
A new decision allows EU member states to align VAT rates on print books and ebooks if they choose to, instead of a 15% minimum for electronic services.
Russia’s Clever Media Group Now Talking of September for North American Launch
Russian children’s publisher Clever Media Group is looking to publish English-language titles in US and Canadian markets this autumn, accelerating its international expansion plans.
Russian Publishers Warn of Lost Profits Amid a Newly Announced VAT Hike
The prosperity that some in the Russian book industry thought was rising this year may be headed in the other direction, if the expected rise in book VAT becomes a reality.
Ebook Distributors Meet to Discuss Common EU Digital Market
In Madrid, several top ebook distributors meet to discuss mutual challenges in book publishing and the possibility of a common European digital market.
France, Germany, Italy, Poland Call for Lowering VAT on Ebooks
The Culture Ministers of France, Germany, Italy and Poland have joined together to campaign for the EC to charge the same VAT for ebook sales as print.
Ukraine Reacts to Russian Book Infestation with Big Investment
Russia supplies 90% of the books in the Ukraine, but the government wants to change this by investing over $60 million to support the indigenous book business.
Should UK Consumers Boycott Amazon This Christmas?
Editorials are beginning to appear in UK newspapers encouraging consumers to consider boycotting Amazon and other multinationals who avoid paying UK tax rates.
Does Europe Need a Single Open Market for E-books?
By Edward Nawotka As discussed in today’s lead story, European laws governing the sale of books vary wildly from country to country, often favoring print over e-books. Many of the major markets have fixed book pricing and part of the reasoning behind fixed book prices is that it allows all retailers to compete on a level playing field when it …