The European Commission has published a decision to waive VAT and customs duties on protective equipment, testing kits and medical devices imported from non-EU countries. This measure applies from 30 January 2020 till 31 July 2020, with the possibility of being extended should the current health emergency persist.

On 20 March, the Commission invited all Member States, as well as the UK, to formally request lifting customs duties and VAT on imports of medical equipment necessary to fight the COVID-19 coronavirus. All Member States and the UK have submitted the request.

Both government agencies and approved charitable organisations will benefit from the relief measure.

The commission decision can be accessed at this link >