The proposed VAT increase on theaters, museums, books, and sports set for 2026 has been retracted following pressure from opposition parties in the Dutch Tweede Kamer. Without their support, the proposal lacked majority backing in the Eerste Kamer. Finance Minister…
Today, various bookstores in the Netherlands staged a protest against a proposed VAT increase by opening later than usual. Store employees read silently until 10:00 AM to express their discontent over the government’s plan to raise the VAT on books…
The Dutch government supported the increase of VAT on culture, books, sports, and hotel stays, despite strong criticism from opposition parties during discussions in the Tweede Kamer. The proposed changes aim to raise approximately €2 billion, but critics argue they…
Writers, athletes, and actors gathered in The Hague to protest the government’s proposed increase of VAT from 9% to 21% on books and certain cultural and sports activities. Critics, including author Saskia Noort, claim the hike may discourage reading and…
