Belgium pauses planned doubling of ticket VAT rate
Proposals to hike the tax rate on popular music concert tickets, from 6% to 12%, have been sent back to the drawing board
News By Eamonn Forde | 19 February 2026
Plans to increase the VAT rate in Belgium, potentially doubling it from 6% to 12% for live popular music events, have been derailed.
In its December 2025 budget, the country’s federal government had proposed an increase relating to cultural and sporting events, including concerts, festivals, and comedy shows, along with takeaway food, which would go into effect on 1 March.
The country’s live music industry raised concerns about the impact of the hike, especially when coupled with rising costs for energy and show…
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