宽带、短信等增值税税率由6%提高至9%，会涨价吗？

Core Viewpoint - The adjustment of the VAT tax rate applicable to certain telecommunications services in China is expected to impact the revenue and profits of the three major telecom operators: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. The VAT rate for these services will increase from 6% to 9% starting January 1, 2026, as per the new regulations issued by the Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation [3][4]. Summary by Sections VAT Rate Adjustment - The new regulations redefine the scope of basic telecommunications services to include mobile data services, SMS, MMS, and internet broadband access, which were previously classified under value-added telecommunications services with a lower VAT rate of 6% [4]. - The adjustment expands the range of services subject to the 9% VAT rate, thereby increasing the tax burden on the three major telecom operators [4]. Impact on Telecom Operators - The increase in VAT from 6% to 9% for certain services may lead to higher costs for the telecom operators, which could potentially be passed on to consumers depending on demand elasticity [5]. - Voice call services, which were already subject to a 9% VAT rate, will not see a price increase due to this adjustment [5]. Financial Context - The adjustment is part of broader fiscal measures aimed at addressing increasing fiscal revenue challenges, as indicated by the decline in public budget revenues and the increase in budget expenditures in recent years [6].