Global VAT & Indirect Tax News

A non‑binding opinion from an EU Court of Justice adviser clarifies that Stellantis Portugal SA’s practice of adjusting sales prices for dealerships does not constitute a service and therefore is not subject to VAT. The opinion adds to a growing body of guidance on VAT treatment of transfer‑pricing adjustments and highlights the European Commission’s focus on closing the €128 billion VAT gap reported in 2023.

The UK government announced a £92m Places of Worship Renewal Fund on 22 Jan 2026, replacing the £23m Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme that had allowed churches to reclaim VAT on repairs. The new fund removes VAT relief, meaning churches will now have to pay the standard 20% VAT on repairs, with the previous scheme having capped VAT‑exempt repairs at £25,000. The move aims to align churches with other heritage assets but raises concerns about the financial burden on congregations.

The European Court of Justice ruled that Spain cannot automatically deny cleaning cooperatives a VAT exemption for services supplied to educational and healthcare institutions. The decision confirms that such co‑ops are entitled to the exemption, preventing blanket denial by Spanish authorities. The ruling was issued on 22 January 2026.

This article outlines the tax, National Insurance and VAT implications of Christmas gifts and gift vouchers for employees and customers in the UK. It explains the trivial benefit threshold of £50, the £300 cap for directors, and the VAT treatment for gifts over £50. The guidance also covers reporting requirements such as P11D and the conditions for tax‑deductible promotional gifts.