Global VAT & Indirect Tax News

Belgium will implement a new VAT rate structure from 1 March 2026, shifting take‑away meals and many leisure services to a 12% rate while raising the rate for furnished accommodation to 12% and moving plant protection products to the standard 21% rate. The changes also refine drink taxation in restaurants and preserve 6% rates for specific cultural performances.

The Manila Times opinion piece explains how the Supreme Court’s February 4 2025 ruling in the Subic Bay Freeport case clarified that domestic market enterprises (DMEs) are entitled to VAT zero‑rating under the Create Act, overturning earlier BIR issuances that excluded them. It also outlines the conditions under which DMEs can still claim the benefit under the newer Create More law, namely high‑value DMEs with significant investment capital or export sales, and stresses that purchases must be directly attributable to the registered project. The article advises businesses in freeports and ecozones to update their ERP systems, document eligibility, and align procurement processes to avoid disputes.

North Macedonia has introduced several VAT and e‑invoicing updates in late 2025 and early 2026. The VAT exemption for small‑value shipments is now limited to non‑commercial items, the 5% preferential rate for residential buildings is extended to 2028, and a pilot e‑invoice system (e‑Faktura) began on 5 January 2026. A new Top‑up Tax Rulebook was also published, aligning with OECD standards.

Turkey’s Parliament extended the VAT‑free period for inward processing regime (IPR) purchases from 31 December 2025 to 31 December 2030. The change aims to prevent exporters and manufacturer‑exporters from having to pay VAT upfront on domestic raw materials, thereby protecting cash flow and competitiveness.