CROATIA restricts the applicability of the local reverse charge mechanism +++ FRANCE abolishes Saisonnier-returns +++ INDIA requires online market place operators to withhold tax +++ ITALY reduces the scope of electronic invoicing +++ PORTUGAL introduces real-time reporting +++ SLOVENIA requires distance sellers to file Intrastat declarations +++ SWITZERLAND only charges broadcasting fees to established companies and applies VAT to distance sales +++UK introduced a software-interface solution to file VAT returns

On 02.10.2018, the EU Finance Ministers in the ECOFIN reached a decision on a number of measures in the field of VAT legislation. The ECOFIN agreed on the so-called “quick fixes” proposed by the EU Commission last year and these shall apply as of 01.01.2020 (cf. KMLZ Newsletter 32/2017). Furthermore, the Council allowed, until 30.06.2022, to apply temporarily the generalised reverse charge regime. In the future, member states will be permitted to apply a reduced VAT rate or a zero rate to electronic publications. The agreed measures to strengthen administrative cooperation between member states shall apply as of 01.01.2020.

The Federal Ministry of Finance limits the scope of application for supplies in maritime transport and aviation (letter of 05.09.2018). The transactions will be zero-rated, if the watercraft or aircraft can already be clearly and unambiguously identified at the time of the supply. Zero-rating can also be applied to supplies carried out at the earlier stage of the commercial chain where the supplier is able to prove the final purpose of the supply destined for a tax-advantaged watercraft or aircraft, by means of accounting and other documentary evidence. The tax benefits only apply to existing watercraft or aircraft.