Belgian book sector warns of bankruptcies, urges 0% VAT as Arizona coalition weighs hike

Belgian publishers, booksellers, and authors have sent a letter to the government warning that a proposed VAT increase on books could trigger hundreds of bankruptcies and layoffs, urging a 0% rate on books and educational materials. The Arizona coalition is considering unifying reduced VAT rates, which would raise the current rate on books. The sector's warning highlights the potential economic and cultural impact of the fiscal measure, though the final decision remains uncertain.