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Do other countries tax books?

Many countries have different tax policies for books. Some, like the UK, apply a zero-rate VAT to books, recognising their cultural importance. However, business rates on the physical shops still apply. Other nations might have different sales taxes or subsidies that affect the final price and availability of books for readers.

Stories that explain this

Authors: Bookshops need pub-like tax cuts to sell 1,141 more books

Related explainers

Why are books more expensive? How does tax affect local shops? What are business rates? What is a financial support package? Why support independent bookshops? Do other countries offer tax breaks? How do book charities work? Why are books so important?

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