Brussels, 16 June 2017

News Media Europe are disappointed with the Czech veto in the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (Ecofin) decision on the VAT reform for e-press publications. The new regime would have enabled EU Member States to apply the same reduced VAT rates for online news content as for print. The Czech veto is a major setback in making today’s VAT regime fit for the digital age.

This move undermines the European Digital Single Market and publishers’ drive to investment in digital offers. Additionally, levelling print and digital news products in terms of VAT is necessary to cut costly red tape on the publishing houses.

Per Hultengård, Chairman of NME Digital VAT taskforce, said “We are disappointed that Member States didn’t find an agreement on applying equal rates both for print and digital news products. It would’ve been an important recognition of the crucial role of the press in the democratic process, both online and offline, at a time where it is more needed than ever.”

About News Media Europe:

News Media Europe (NME) represents the progressive news media industry in Europe – over 2200 European newsbrands of newspapers, radio, tv and internet. NME is committed to maintaining and promoting the freedom of the press, to upholding and enhancing the freedom to publish, and to championing the newsbrands which are one of the most vital parts of Europe’s creative industries.

For further information please contact:

Per Hultengård, Chairman of NME Digital VAT taskforce: per.hultengard@tu.se.
Wout van Wijk, Executive Director, wout.vanwijk@newsmediaeurope.eu.  
Francesco Vinci, Policy Advisor, francesco.vinci@newsmediaeurope.eu.

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