Cyprus has extended the zero percent VAT rate on a range of essential items until 31 December 2026. The extension, announced by the Cyprus Tax Department on 15 January 2026, covers baby milk, diapers, feminine hygiene products, and certain fresh fruits and vegetables.

Brazil’s 2026‑2032 VAT reform introduces a targeted “Cashback” mechanism that refunds part of the new CBS and IBS taxes to low‑income families. The scheme will reimburse 100% of CBS and 20% of IBS on essential utilities (draft figures) and is expected to start in 2027 with a phased rollout. Refunds will be transferred electronically to families’ bank accounts linked to their CPF.

The Bahamas Prime Minister announced that unprepared food will be zero-rated for VAT effective 1 April 2026. The change applies to all unprepared food items sold within the country.

The article argues that India’s 2026 budget should overhaul the GST structure, financing options, and fleet economics to accelerate electric vehicle adoption. It proposes reducing GST on batteries and charging services to 5%, reclassifying battery swapping as an energy service, extending vehicle life norms, and providing green credit and toll waivers to lower ownership costs and support large fleet conversions.

Russia increased its VAT rate from 20% to 22% on 1 January 2026, expanding VAT registration to more small businesses. The Finance Ministry expects the hike to bring an extra 3.2 trillion rubles in revenue, while businesses have already raised prices to offset the tax change. The move aims to close the fiscal gap caused by war spending and falling oil revenues.