Statute of the Professional Creator and Producer of Art and Culture

The Statute of the Professional Creator and Producer of Art and Culture is a proposed law approved by the Government of Cape Verde that aims to formalize and regulate the work of professionals in the field. The document was prepared after consultations with various entities, including the National Institute of Social Security (INPS), the National Directorate of State Revenue, and representative associations such as the Cape Verdean Society of Music and the Cape Verdean Society of Authors.

Key Benefits in Detail

• Recognition and Professional Dignity: The law creates the “artist’s card,” which is a form of official recognition of the profession. This not only values ​​the work of artists but is also a prerequisite for them to access other benefits.
• Social Security (INPS): One of the biggest gains is the inclusion of artists and producers in the social security system. By registering with INPS, they gain rights such as:
  • Retirement.
  • Sickness and maternity benefits.
  • Protection in case of workplace accidents.
• Tax Benefits: The law introduces a special tax regime for artists, which includes:
  • Exemption from VAT and customs duties on the import of essential equipment, such as musical instruments, film cameras, lighting equipment, and other materials directly related to your business. This exemption applies to products that are not manufactured in Cape Verde, which is a great incentive for improving the quality of production.
• Support for Entrepreneurship: The statute places artists within the Special Regime for Micro and Small Enterprises (REMPE), which facilitates the creation and formalization of businesses in the cultural sector. This promotes competitiveness and the development of cultural micro-enterprises, making the sector more robust and economically viable.
• Mandatory Formal Contracting: The new law requires that individuals or companies wishing to hire an art or cultural professional do so formally, provided the artist is properly registered. This combats informality and ensures that artists have their rights respected.

The approval of this law is seen as a historic step for Cape Verdean culture. The expectation is that it will not only value and formalize artistic work but also contribute to the country’s economy by stimulating the creative industry. It is a way of recognizing that culture is a pillar of social and economic development.

The Statute for Professional Creators and Producers of Art and Culture is not yet in effect; however, the government has shown great interest in the swift approval of this law, so it is expected that the process will move forward without major delays.

It is from the date of publication in the Official Gazette that the law becomes official and enters into force.