Russian ministry offers zero VAT for national mass media

ST. PETERSBURG, Apr 5 (PRIME) -- Russia’s Communications and Mass Media Ministry has suggested introducing a zero value-added tax (VAT) for national mass media, Deputy Minister Alexei Volin said Tuesday at a media forum.

“If, for example, a movie has a status of a national one, it enjoys a zero VAT. Let’s achieve a zero VAT for domestic mass media,” Volin said.

A higher quality level of content is among key conditions for better competitiveness of mass media, in addition to wider advertising opportunities and lighter tax burden, he said.

“If mass media are not interesting, neither advertisements nor lower taxes will help,” Volin said.

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