Practical implications of EU e-commerce VAT rules

indoor marketplace with customers

Key Takeaways

As of July 1st, 2021, the EU introduced new cross-border e-commerce VAT rules, imposing significant VAT liabilities and compliance requirements on online merchants and marketplaces.

The legislation aims to close the gap in indirect tax revenue from distance sellers, creating a level playing field for businesses but introducing complexities for marketplaces.

Marketplaces must implement additional measures to ensure compliance with the new VAT rules, highlighted in the guide provided by Vertex to help navigate these changes.

As of July 1st 2021, the EU pushed for modernization of cross-border e-commerce VAT rules. The new legislation introduces substantial new VAT liabilities and compliance requirements. These concern both online merchants and marketplaces/multi-seller platforms facilitating sales to EU private consumers.

The legislation puts an end to governments missing out on indirect tax revenue from distance sellers. Now, it creates a VAT-level playing field for businesses. However, considerable complexities for marketplaces come attached to it.

To avoid being non-compliant, these marketplaces must ensure a series of additional measures. This guide aims to look at the new VAT rules for marketplaces and the practical implications they can have on a marketplace business.

Read the eGuide by Vertex to learn the key areas of change directly relevant to marketplaces, and to better prepare yourself to navigate and comply.

Download the guide