Spanish Art World Protests 21% Cultural VAT, Demands Reduction to Match European Standards

• Over 100 artists, gallery owners, and collectors protested at major Spanish museums demanding a reduction in Spain’s 21% cultural VAT, which is much higher than other EU countries.
• The high VAT, imposed in 2012, has not been reduced despite an EU directive allowing rates as low as 5% for cultural goods and services.
• Protesters argue that the high tax threatens the survival of Spanish galleries and puts them at a disadvantage compared to European counterparts.
• Demonstrations included chants and symbolic actions, with further protests planned during upcoming art events.
• The sector demands tax equality with other EU countries, emphasizing that art is culture, not a luxury.

Source: bonart.cat

Note that this post was (partially) written with the help of AI. It is always useful to review the original source material, and where needed to obtain (local) advice from a specialist.

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