According to data released by the European Statistical Service, 2012 saw an increase in VAT in the EU, as well as a gradual increase in income and corporate tax. The same data indicate that income and corporate tax rates in Greece are higher than average in the euro area and the EU.

In regards to VAT specifically, in 2012 it varied in the EU from 15 % in Luxembourg and 17 % in Cyprus to 27 % in Hungary, 25 % in Denmark and Sweden, 24 % in Romania and 23 % in Greece, Portugal, Ireland, Finland and Poland. The average VAT rate in the EU in 2012 came to 21 % and in the euro area to 20 %.

Can the Commission answer the following:

How does it expect competitiveness and investments in Greece to be strengthened when such high tax rates are in force?