Germany slaps piracy tax on PCs

The new year has started badly for PC manufacturer Fujitsu Siemens after the firm lost a controversial case that will see at least €12 added to the cost of its computers.

The judgement by a Munich district court found that PCs fall under the same classification as blank videos in that they can be used by pirates to copy media.

Manufacturers in Germany must now pay an additional levy intended to recompense copyright owners.

The case was brought by German copyright management organisation VG Wort, which is now looking to levy the charge on all PCs sold in Germany. The organisation had asked for a levy of €30 but this was reduced by the court.

Fujitsu Siemens was unavailable for comment, but is expected to appeal against the decision. Printers and scanners could also be covered by the ruling.