VAT recovery is not simply an administrative process—it is the result of good planning. Decisions made before goods move often determine whether import VAT can be recovered at all.

Businesses operating internationally should review their supply chains regularly to ensure that customs procedures, contractual arrangements and VAT registrations all support successful VAT recovery. Early planning, supported by experienced advisers across Europe, can prevent costly disputes, improve cash flow and reduce the risk of irrecoverable VAT.

The reverse-charge mechanism transfers VAT accounting responsibility from the supplier to the customer. When VAT is incorrectly charged on a reverse-charge transaction, the VAT may not be recoverable from HMRC, creating unnecessary costs and compliance risks. Businesses should ensure the correct VAT treatment is applied and seek prompt correction of any invoicing errors.

What format invoice must you issue?

E-invoicing is rapidly becoming a core component of tax compliance across the EU. The changes coming into force around 2026 should be viewed not simply as a technical requirement, but as a broader transformation of invoicing, reporting, and VAT management processes.

Early preparation will be key to ensuring compliance, avoiding disruption, and maintaining operational efficiency.

The UK is introducing a Vaping Products excise duty from 1 October 2026. From that date, all vaping products sold in the UK must have Vaping Duty Stamps applied.

What VAT rate applies to electric car charging away from the home?

Update on VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA). Businesses need to prepare now.

UK relaxes VAT grouping rules to allow inclusion of non-UK subsidiaries.

Businesses need to plan for different VAT rates across Europe.

New UK rates, effective 1 February

An overview on progress towards pre-filled VAT returns.

What level of processing is sufficient to change origin for customs purposes?

VAT groups with EU branches and the UK reverse charge