On 3 April, the Commission decided to approve requests from all Member States and the UK to temporarily waive customs duties and VAT on the import of masks, testing kits, ventilators, medical devices, and protective equipment, from third countries in order to help in the fight against COVID-19. The decision takes effect retroactively from 30 January and it will apply for a period of 6 months, with a possibility for further extension. Both EU Customs and VAT legislation provide for the possibility of granting duty reliefs/VAT exemptions for the ‘benefit of disaster victims’.

Should you have any queries or wish to discuss further, please send an email to covid@kpmg.com.mt.

The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.