Belgian Government Delays VAT Increases on Leisure and Food
The Belgian government has postponed planned value-added tax (VAT) increases affecting sectors including culture, sports, and takeaway food, according to recent reports. The move comes amid ongoing debate and political maneuvering surrounding broader tax reform proposals.
Initially slated to rise from 6% to 12%, the VAT on these services will remain at the current rate for the time being. This includes services like fitness centers, festivals, and takeaway meals. The decision to delay the increases was described as a temporary measure, with the timing of future implementation remaining uncertain.
The government had previously explored a French proposal for VAT reform, but has now abandoned that approach. “We are not going to let ourselves be made to glance ridiculous again,” officials stated, signaling a rejection of the French model. This decision underscores the complexities of navigating tax policy within the Belgian political landscape.
The postponement also extends to a proposed reduction in VAT for the hospitality sector, which will also remain on hold. The government is facing pressure to balance fiscal responsibility with the need to support key industries and maintain consumer spending. The delay provides a temporary reprieve for businesses and consumers alike, but the long-term implications of the VAT policy remain unclear.
In a separate development, one of the two individuals previously reported missing following recent flooding in Belgium has been found. This recovery offers a small measure of relief amidst the ongoing challenges facing the country.
