TVN in tax protest

Scripps Networks Interactive-owned Polish broadcaster TVN has lodged a protest about a tax demand made by the country’s authorities in relation to the sale of the merger of digital platform ‘n’ with Cyfra+ in 2012 to create nc+, before Scripps acquired the company.

The tax administration has demanded PLN110 million (€26 million) from TVN in relation to the transaction. The broadcaster said that it had followed guidelines set by the country’s ministry of finance at the time and that its approach was consistent with opinions received from major international tax advice firms and auditors. The Polish tax authorities failed to identify any irregularities during a previous look at the matter.

TVN said it would pay the demand but would appeal in the regional administrative court.

The case relates to TVN’s sale of its stake in ‘n’ in exchange for a 32% stake in the combined platform.

TVN’s rival Cyfrowy Polsat is also separately fighting a tax demand. The tax authorities claim the broadcaster owes PLN40.6 million plus interest over a six-year period in relation to the 2011 financial year.