- Proposed VAT Increase: Dutch State Secretary Van Oostenbruggen is considering raising the highest VAT rate from 21% to 21.4% as an alternative to a previously proposed VAT increase on culture, sports, and books, which lacked support from opposition parties.
- Political Response: The proposal has faced criticism from various political parties, including the VVD, PVV, and SGP, with leaders expressing concerns about increasing costs for consumers already burdened by rising prices and advocating for measures to alleviate financial pressures on families.
- Industry Concerns: The retail organization INretail warns that a VAT hike could disadvantage local businesses, potentially benefiting foreign online retailers like Shein and Temu, and emphasizes that the current VAT rate is already higher than in neighboring countries, calling the increase a detrimental decision for the Dutch retail sector.
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