MBF Group
An optimistic decision for all potential buyers of medical and protective supplies in the fight against coronavirus! April 3 this year. The European Commission has approved a proposal by member states to temporarily eliminate tariffs and VAT on imported masks, respirators and other medical equipment to combat coronavirus in the EU, EC President Ursula von der Leyen announced.
The Commission called on member states, as well as the UK, to submit proposals to repeal customs duties and VAT on imports of protective and other medical equipment from third countries on March 20. All EU countries and the United Kingdom have made corresponding requests.
There are unique tools in EU law to help victims of disasters, which can be used in the face of the current coronavirus crisis. EU legislation provides for the possibility of granting customs relief for the “benefit of disaster victims.” It can be applied to imports by “state organizations or approved charities.” To grant relief, a decision is required from the Commission, acting on a proposal from the member states concerned. Similarly, there are provisions in VAT legislation for VAT exemptions on the importation of certain goods.
According to the Issuer, this will reduce the price of masks for the end consumer and improve the demand capacity of any units in need of such materials for protection against SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.
