A value-added tax discount on tampons and pads will shift from 10% to 4% for feminine hygiene products. This policy, pledged by government partners in the coalition agreement, requires budgetary resources and is now embedded in the third General Government Budgets as a measure aimed at reducing menstrual poverty.
The reduction in this tax was announced during a public presentation by the Third Vice President and Minister of Labor, Yolanda Díaz, who highlighted the agreement between United We Can and the PSOE on the budget plans.
Díaz stated, We will finally lower VAT from 10% to 4% for feminine hygiene products because they are essential, not luxury items. She also noted that VAT on condoms and certain non-prescription birth control pills would be reduced as well.
The move drew wide support from the Ministry of Equality, which has long advocated for reforms and has backed Podemos in its efforts to advance this policy. The party has prioritized this reduction since entering the executive branch.
Irene Montero, the head of Equality, described the VAT cut as a form of financial and feminist justice. She emphasized that addressing menstrual poverty and safeguarding women’s health is a public duty.
Angela Rodríguez, the Minister of State for Equality and Against Gender-Based Violence, welcomed the decision as a positive development, calling menstrual poverty one of the most unjust forms of gender inequality faced by the country. She noted that discussions at the national level produced feminist budget commitments.
Ione Belarra, leader of Unidas Podemos, expressed particular satisfaction at the VAT reduction on feminine hygiene products, underscoring the long-standing effort to achieve this milestone.
The Ministry of Social Rights also underscored that the reform helps correct an enduring injustice affecting women, especially those who are most vulnerable, by easing the financial burden associated with menstrual care.