In a decisive move to combat a significant "reading crisis," the Danish government has announced the abolition of a 25% sales tax on books. This tax, considered one of the highest globally, is hoped to be lifted to encourage greater book consumption among the populace. Culture Minister Jacob Engel-Schmidt emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating it would cost the government approximately 330 million kroner ($50 million, £38 million) annually but was essential for fostering a culture of reading.
Recent data from the OECD reveals alarming statistics, showing that around 25% of Danish 15-year-olds struggle with understanding simple texts. Engel-Schmidt expressed his pride in the government's decision to cut the tax, emphasizing the need for substantial investment in cultural consumption. He noted that neighboring countries like Finland, Sweden, and Norway have significantly lower VAT rates on books, with figures showing 14%, 6%, and 0%, respectively, while the UK also enjoys a VAT-free status on books.
Mads Rosendahl Thomsen, vice-chair of the government’s literature working group, commented on the declining reading abilities among young Danes. He explained that while younger children can improve their reading skills quickly, comprehension becomes critical by the age of 15. He attributed the decline partly to the multitude of distractions faced by today's youth.
Though Minister Engel-Schmidt acknowledged that scrapping the VAT on books is not a foolproof solution to the declining reading levels, it is a vital step toward making literature more readily available. Additionally, the working group on literature is investigating various strategies for promoting Danish literature abroad, digitizing the book market, and assessing the impact of these changes on authors’ earnings.
Recent data from the OECD reveals alarming statistics, showing that around 25% of Danish 15-year-olds struggle with understanding simple texts. Engel-Schmidt expressed his pride in the government's decision to cut the tax, emphasizing the need for substantial investment in cultural consumption. He noted that neighboring countries like Finland, Sweden, and Norway have significantly lower VAT rates on books, with figures showing 14%, 6%, and 0%, respectively, while the UK also enjoys a VAT-free status on books.
Mads Rosendahl Thomsen, vice-chair of the government’s literature working group, commented on the declining reading abilities among young Danes. He explained that while younger children can improve their reading skills quickly, comprehension becomes critical by the age of 15. He attributed the decline partly to the multitude of distractions faced by today's youth.
Though Minister Engel-Schmidt acknowledged that scrapping the VAT on books is not a foolproof solution to the declining reading levels, it is a vital step toward making literature more readily available. Additionally, the working group on literature is investigating various strategies for promoting Danish literature abroad, digitizing the book market, and assessing the impact of these changes on authors’ earnings.
