Demonstrators release balloons in front of the Finance Ministry during a demonstration, Paris, Monday, Dec. 23, 2013. Thousands of horse riding enthusiasts protested against a sales tax increase they say will make riding lessons too expensive and force many schools to close. In January, France plans to nearly triple the value added tax on riding schools to bring it in line with EU regulations. (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)
December 23, 2013 - 11:03 AM
PARIS - Horse riders and trainers are demonstrating against a plan to nearly triple the tax on riding schools in France.
Enthusiasts fear the higher tax will make lessons too expensive, and force many schools to close. And they worry it will further chip away at rural traditions already struggling in a stagnant economy.
France is set to raise the tax as of January to adhere to EU regulations. The move has drawn demonstrations, in a season when many people are protesting President Francois Hollande's handling of the economy.
On Monday, protesters and their horses marched on the Finance Ministry in Paris, and staged a protest in Brussels as well as some other cities.
News from © The Associated Press, 2013