In Latvia, VAT on books and newspapers in Russian will be increased

The Latvian Saeima has adopted changes to legislation according to which, starting January 1, 2026, the value-added tax (VAT) on books and press in Russian will be 21% — the standard rate, reports the media outlet Delfi.

For publications in Latvian, Latgalian, Livonian, and the languages of EU and OECD countries, the reduced VAT rate of 5% will be maintained. The benefit applies to both printed and electronic editions, including online publications. This means that from 2026, the Latvian book sector will operate under two tax regimes: publications in the state and European languages will enjoy the reduced rate, while books and newspapers in Russian will be taxed at the maximum rate of 21%.

During the Saeima’s discussion of the amendments, representatives of the opposition parties “Latvia First” and “Stability!” criticized the decision, emphasizing that it will effectively increase the cost of books and periodicals in Russian. Deputies from Stability! proposed to restore the reduced rate for Russian-language books, but their amendment was not supported — only 17 deputies voted in favor, while 60 opposed it.

The initiative to raise VAT on books and press in Russian was proposed by the Latvian Ministry of Culture. The ministry explained that the country has legal and political documents that emphasize the status of Latvian as the sole state language and define its support as a priority in cultural policy.

The VAT amendments for the book market are part of a package of laws accompanying the state budget for 2026. At the same time, the Saeima adopted a decision to reduce the VAT rate on a number of food products (flour, milk, eggs) in order to mitigate the impact of rising prices on citizens’ welfare.

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