Global VAT & Indirect Tax News

A London appeals court dismissed a UK telecommunications provider’s bid to recover £51.1 million in VAT payments, agreeing with a lower court that the VAT is owed when the provider supplied services. The decision confirms the provider cannot recover the VAT paid on its telecom services.

The Upper Tribunal ruled that Lycamobile UK must pay more than £50 million in VAT, requiring the operator to charge VAT on the full price of prepaid mobile bundles at the point of sale, rather than only on services actually used. The decision, dated 12 Feb 2026, overturns Lycamobile's previous VAT calculation method.

The article reviews recent EU Court of Justice rulings that clarify the VAT treatment of transfer‑pricing adjustments in intragroup transactions. It explains that payments calculated under OECD methods may be treated as VAT‑subjected remuneration for services, while unilateral profit allocations are generally outside VAT scope. The piece also highlights the pending Stellantis Portugal opinion and the need for businesses to document services and support evidence to secure VAT recoverability.