Below is a categorized list of books not exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT) according to Nigeria’s Modification Order 2021. These books do not qualify for VAT exemption unless they are specifically used for formal education purposes.
1. Fiction Books 📖
- Novels (romance, thriller, mystery, adventure, horror, etc.)
- Science fiction and fantasy books
- Short story collections
- Poetry books
- Graphic novels and comic books
2. Business & Finance Books 💼
- Investment guides (e.g., “How to Invest in Stocks”)
- Real estate and financial freedom books
- Business leadership and entrepreneurship books
- Wealth management and money-saving books
- Cryptocurrency and blockchain guides
3. Self-Help & Motivational Books 🚀
- Personal development books (e.g., “Think and Grow Rich”)
- Success and mindset transformation books
- Relationship and marriage guides
- Productivity and time management books
- Books on happiness, habits, and self-discipline
4. Religious Books (Not Used for Formal Education) ✝️🕌
- Devotional books and daily meditation guides
- Sermon collections and spiritual reflections
- Prophetic teachings and inspirational books
- Books on faith, miracles, and prosperity
- Religious self-help books (e.g., “How to Live a Purposeful Life”)
(Note: Religious books used in formal theological studies may still be VAT-exempt.)
5. Entertainment & Celebrity Books 🎭
- Celebrity autobiographies and memoirs
- Music, film, and entertainment industry books
- Behind-the-scenes books on TV shows and movies
- Fan-fiction and unofficial companion books
6. Lifestyle & Hobby Books 🎨
- Cookbooks and recipe collections
- Fashion, beauty, and grooming books
- Home improvement and interior design books
- Gardening and landscaping books
- Travel guides and tourism books
7. Sports, Fitness & Wellness Books 🏋️♂️
- Workout and exercise guides
- Weight loss and dieting books
- Sports training and coaching books
- Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness books
8. Astrology, Mysticism & Occult Books 🔮
- Horoscope and zodiac books
- Tarot reading and numerology books
- Witchcraft, spells, and magical practices books
- Ancient spiritual and mystical texts (unless used for academic study)
9. Art, Design & Photography Books 🎭📷
- Coffee table books
- Art exhibition catalogs
- Fashion photography books
- Architecture and interior design books
10. Humor & Satire Books 😂
- Joke books
- Satirical essays and comic strips
- Stand-up comedy collections
Implications for Book Sellers and Buyers
Bookstores must properly categorize their inventory to ensure correct VAT application.
Example: A bookstore selling school textbooks should not charge VAT, but if they also sell fiction novels, those must include 7.5% VAT.
In summary;
Clarifications on VAT-Exempt Books:
- Exemption applies only to books specifically used for formal education.
- Example: A medical textbook is VAT-exempt, but a book on natural remedies for personal use is NOT.
- Exemption does NOT cover general knowledge, business, motivational, or religious books (unless used in an academic setting).
- Example: A university theology textbook is VAT-exempt, but a pastor’s personal book on faith and prosperity is NOT.
For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.
