Temporary lowering of VAT rate during the sales period

8.4.2020

Question for written answer E-002158/2020
to the Commission
Rule 138
Kris Peeters (PPE)

The coronavirus crisis is causing liquidity problems for many businesses, putting them at risk of going bankrupt. A number of countries are talking, therefore, about postponing the sales period. A better idea would be to lower the VAT rate temporarily during the sales period from, for example, 21 % to 15 %.

• 1.What options are there for lowering the VAT rate temporarily during the sales period?
• 2.Which sectors would be entitled to a reduction of this kind in the VAT rate?