Government policy and EU decisions have had a dramatic effect on the VAT and Customs systems in recent years.  Rates and indirect tax liabilities in various EU countries change frequently and the number of indirect tax compliance visits and investigations carried out by the VAT administration is increasing.  This trend is likely to continue with governments raising more revenue through indirect taxes, alignment of indirect tax legislation within the EU, the increase in international trade and the introduction of VAT systems by more non-EU countries.

The problem

Indirect taxes ― i.e. value added taxes, sales taxes, custom duties and excise ― can represent up to a third of a company’s annual turnover. The magnitude of these tax collections is rarely highlighted in annual reports.  

Poor indirect tax management can squeeze cash flow, allow the over or underpayment of tax and attract penalties for non-compliance.

Why KPMG

KPMG’s Indirect tax team provides advice and assistance at domestic and international level. We structure our effort to dovetail with your business issues and strategy. Our focus is on supplying value adding, pragmatic advice rather than just a list of recommendations. 

How we can help

Our tax professionals are able to review your company's current tax position and provide relevant advice and planning on a range of indirect taxes including VAT, customs duties and excise taxes (such as tax audits, reorganizations and acquisitions, etc.) and help companies with their administrative obligations and contacts with administrative bodies.