Portugal to introduce new tax on gadgets

The Portuguese government said that it will introduce a new tax on gadgets, sparking mixed reactions among local associations, according to local media reports on Friday.
Secretary of State for Culture Jorge Barreto Xavier said that the revenue raised by the new tax would reach up to 20 million euros, which would go to the managing bodies of copyright and artists to pay the agents who produce the works, according to local media.
Any surplus will go to the country's Cultural Heritage Fund, he said.
However, the Business Association for Electrical, Household, Photography and Electronic Equipment (AGEFE) said that consumers will be affected by this "disguised tax," claiming it will be a burden for the economy.
The move has been praised by the Portuguese Society of Authors (PSA) who said it would fill the void in legal diplomas, though they also recognize that it could negatively affect the interests of consumers.
The controversial tax measure will be discussed at parliament after it was approved on Thursday at a cabinet meeting.