As is known, the import and sale of media products, the import and sale of books, as well as the import and sale of paper in the form of rolls or sheets related to the production of newspapers, magazines and other similar products were subject to VAT at the rate of 18%.

But when we look at the VAT rate in the book industry in most countries of the world, we see that it is either very small or not at all.

Compared to neighboring countries, our figure - 18 percent - is very high.

According to this percentage, from time to time, publishing directors, bookstore owners, editors-in-chief of newspapers and magazines, writers and poets have made various proposals and expressed their objections to the removal of VAT on paper.

Because the issue in question is directly related to the selling price of books,

Finally, according to the new decision, the import and sale of media products and books, as well as textbook sets, the import and sale of paper in the form of rolls or sheets related to the production (publication) of these products are exempt from VAT.

How will the new decision affect the book market?

Poet Rashad Majid, editor-in-chief of the 525th newspaper, says the time has come for the process: “This discussion took place in the Milli Majlis several times last year.

At the same time, there were public discussions.

Of course, the new law is a very positive development.

Because it will also affect the economic situation of the print media, increase the number of book publications and reduce their prices.

According to Shahbaz Khuduoglu, director of Qanun Publishing House, this step is a special attitude to the book in itself: “This step is a serious stimulus to the name of the book, book culture.

The new law will increase the total circulation and increase the market price of books.

I think it will also bring a new breath and enthusiasm to the tradition of writing.

At the same time, the step will introduce the name of Azerbaijan in the world not as a country that imposes a tax on the book sector, but as a country that already supports, concessions and protects it.

In general, it was a new and private approach to the book industry, we have been working for this process for years. "

The impact of a private approach to the book industry on book sales is also interesting.

There is always dissatisfaction with the prices in bookstores in the country.

Most readers order books from foreign countries, especially Turkey.

Because the issue of VAT in question creates a huge difference in book prices between Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Earlier, VAT in Turkey was 8 percent, but later this 8 percent tax was abolished, and as a result, today Azerbaijani readers have to turn to the Turkish book market.

Given the previous high price, this was kind of understandable.

What will happen after that, what are the expectations?

Nigar Kocharli, director of the Ali and Nino bookstore chain, says there will be a reduction in the price of books: “In civilized countries, the VAT on paper and books is zero.

The application of the same in our country, of course, will affect the book sector and the market.

All this is done not only for the book market, but also for the country's book community.

The number of publications and circulations will increase, and readers will be able to buy books at any price.

Writer Etimad Bashkechid considers this event as one of the most successful steps in recent years: “The removal of VAT on books and paper is one of the most important steps taken in the humanitarian sphere in recent years.

First of all, this is an indication that the knowledge economy is supported by the state.

It is no secret that the basis for the development of national cultures in modern times is formed by the attitude to the reading process, continuous education, books, bookkeeping.

Secondly, Azerbaijan is involved in the issue with Great Britain, Norway, Ireland and others.

demonstrates that it is on a par with countries with rich literary traditions such as

In other words, in most countries of the world, although VAT is maintained, albeit at a low interest rate in the field of book publishing and sales, Azerbaijan completely raises this tax.

Third, this step is the renewal of publishing in our country,

It will have a positive effect on many things, from improving the quality of printed materials to reopening certain jobs and bookstores, which have already become a memory.

Progress shows that practical steps are being taken to develop human capital and the intellectual potential of our people.

We should congratulate everyone who contributed to this decision. "

Both publishing directors, bookstore owners and writers believe that the decision will make a significant contribution to the country's book industry and librarianship.

We hope that in time we will see the implementation of the adopted law and its impact on the book sector compared to previous years.