From Iceland — Customs Tax On Tampons And Pads Probably To Be Lifted

Customs Tax On Tampons And Pads Probably To Be Lifted

Published December 4, 2015

Andie Sophia Fontaine
Photo by
James Cridland/Creative Commons

The Economic Affairs and Trade Committee has recommended that customs fees on pads and tampons be abolished, amongst other changes to the tax code.

RÚV reports that the committee majority recommends the change go into effect on and from January 1. They do not disclose how great the customs fees on these products already are.

As reported, Bright Future MP Heiða Kristín Helgadóttir has been amongst those who have criticised the tax on these products, pointedly asking Minister of Finance Bjarni Benediktsson, “Why is my vagina being taxed?”

In fact, RÚV brought to light last September that Icelandic women will pay about 230,000 ISK over the course of their lives solely on the tax placed on pads and tampons.

The committee also recommended that the tax on snack products – currently at 59% – be abolished, and that the tax on alcohol be lowered from 24% to 11%.

Support The Reykjavík Grapevine!
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!

Show Me More!