The coalition government known as Arizona has put forward a proposal to increase the value‑added tax applied to books in Belgium from the current 6 % to 9 %. The measure, announced in early October 2026, would affect printed titles, e‑books and related educational resources.
In response, a coalition of industry representatives—including major publishers, independent booksellers and organisations that supply educational material—has issued an open letter to the government. The letter calls for a zero‑percent VAT rate on all printed books, digital publications and educational equipment, arguing that the sector cannot absorb a higher tax burden.
The signatories warn that raising the VAT to 9 % could jeopardise access to reading material, undermine educational outcomes and weaken the overall economics of the book market. They contend that a higher tax would translate into increased retail prices, potentially discouraging purchases by families and schools, and could reduce the competitiveness of Belgian publishing on the European stage.
Stakeholders have asked the coalition to reconsider the proposal and to engage in dialogue about alternative financing mechanisms that would protect cultural and educational objectives. The government has not yet responded to the open letter, and the issue is expected to feature in upcoming parliamentary debates on fiscal policy.