Italy Postpones VAT Cut on Artworks, Frustrating Dealers
Federico Mollicone, head of the Culture Commission in Italy's Chamber of Deputies, explains why the promised reduction of VAT on art sales was not included in the recent Culture Decree. Despite explicit commitments and support from the Ministry of Culture, the measure was postponed due to technical delays in evaluating its fiscal impact by the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF). Mollicone insists the delay is purely technical, not political, and reaffirms the government's intention to align Italy's tax regime with EU standards. He also addresses related issues: the disparity between 22% VAT for galleries and 10% for artists, and the outdated 1939 law restricting export of artworks over 70 years old, which he plans to amend in his "Italia in Scena" bill. The article highlights growing frustration among gallerists and dealers who threaten to relocate abroad.
Key facts
- VAT reduction on art sales was promised but omitted from the Culture Decree.
- Federico Mollicone is President of the Culture Commission of the Chamber of Deputies.
- The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) has not completed its fiscal impact assessment.
- Mollicone cites technical timing issues, not political opposition, for the delay.
- Italy's VAT on art is 22%, while artists can invoice at 10%.
- A 1939 law restricts export of artworks over 70 years old, requiring authorization for items over €13,500.
- Mollicone plans to amend the Cultural Heritage Code via his 'Italia in Scena' bill.
- Galleries and dealers threaten to move operations abroad due to lack of competitiveness.
Entities
Artists
- Federico Mollicone
- Massimiliano Tonelli
Institutions
- Fratelli d'Italia
- Commissione Cultura della Camera dei Deputati
- Ministero della Cultura
- Ministero dell'Economia e delle Finanze (MEF)
- Artribune
Locations
- Italy
- Rome
- Montecitorio