- Portugal’s VAT policy has several oddities, such as the upcoming hike in VAT rate for meals if wine or soft drinks are offered.
- The complexity of the VAT system has led to distorted consumption behavior and significant base erosion.
- Portugal’s tax system ranks low in the International Tax Competitiveness Index, and reform focusing on simplification and base expansion is needed.
- The VAT allows for efficient revenue collection, but Portugal’s standard rate of 23% is higher than the EU average.
- In 2021, Portugal collected only 51% of the ideal VAT revenue, with the gap attributed to compliance issues and policy choices that erode the tax base.
- The use of reduced rates and exemptions for goods and services contributes to the large VAT gap.
- Closing this gap would generate significant revenue for the country.
Source Tax Foundation
Latest Posts in "Portugal"
- Extension of Reverse-Charge Mechanism for Construction Services to All Taxable Persons in Portugal
- Partial VAT Refund for Individuals on Construction of Primary Residence up to EUR 660,982
- Reduced VAT Rate for Residential Construction and Rehabilitation: Conditions and Timeline Until 2032
- Portugal VAT Return Rules 2026: New Company Responsibilities and Turnover Thresholds Explained
- Portugal 2026: New VAT Declaration Rules Require Businesses to Self-Determine Filing Frequency
