H. E. Vladimir Meciar
Prime Minister
Office of the Government of
the Slovak Republic
Bratislava
Slovakia

Vienna, 31 October 1997

Your Excellency,

The International Press Institute (IPI), the global network of editors and media executives from newspapers, magazines, broadcasting organisations and news agencies in over 100 countries, is most concerned about the proposal of the Government of the Slovak Republic to increase the value added tax (VAT) on newspapers and magazines.

Until now, there has been VAT of 6% on the periodical press in Slovakia. We are informed that the Government has now issued a proposal according to which, as of 1 January 1998, 6% VAT should apply only to those newspapers and magazines whose contents contain less than 10% of advertisements, classified ads, or erotic and pornographic materials. Under this proposal, the rest of the newspapers and magazines would have to pay 23% VAT. We understand that the proposal is to be considered by the National Council of the Slovak Republic.

The International Press Institute (IPI) believes that this increase in VAT would impose an excessive burden on the majority of independent newspapers and periodicals in Slovakia. Such a proposal would force an increase in their retail prices, lead to the closing of many publications, and ultimately restrict the freedom of expression in Slovakia. We therefore urge Your Excellency to ensure that this proposal is not adopted by the National Council and that the voice of the independent press is not stifled.

We thank you for your attention.

Yours sincerely,

Johann P. Fritz
Director