Denmark to Abolish VAT on Books from 2026

Denmark will abolish its 25% VAT on books in 2026 to combat declining reading habits and make literature more affordable, aligning with Norway’s 0% rate. The government expects book prices to fall significantly and will monitor publishers to ensure the tax cut benefits readers.

Denmark plans to abolish its 25% VAT on books in 2026, currently the highest rate on books worldwide. The move is part of the government’s strategy to address the country’s “reading crisis” and make literature more affordable.

Fewer children and young people in Denmark are reading regularly. To encourage reading, the government will cut VAT on books to 0% and increase funding for school libraries and librarian positions.

Nordic comparison:

• Denmark: 25% (to be abolished in 2026)
• Finland: 14%
• Sweden: 6%
• Norway: 0%

Book prices are expected to fall in line with the 25% VAT cut. The government has warned it will monitor publishers closely, if prices don’t drop, the policy may be reconsidered.

The reform could reshape the Nordic book market and set an example for other EU countries with high VAT rates. Its success will depend on whether cheaper books truly boost reading among young people.