The European Commission has announced its decision on 23 July to extend the waiver of customs duties and VAT on the import of medical equipment from non-EU (third) countries, which was introduced in April 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Commission prolongs VAT and customs duties relief for medical equipment imports

On 23 July 2020 the European Commission decided to prolong the temporary relief for customs duties and VAT on the import of medical devices and protective equipment from third countries in order to help in the fight against coronavirus.

This measure covers masks and protective equipment, as well as testing kits, ventilators and other medical equipment. It will prolong the initial period of six months by another three months.

On 11 June 2020, the Commission consulted all Member States, as well as the UK, regarding the necessity of the extension, and they proceeded to request it. The relief will apply uninterrupted until 31 October 2020.

For more information:

• COVID-19: Waiving VAT and customs duties on vital medical equipment
• Commission Decision of 23.7.2020 amending Decision (EU) 2020/491 on relief from import duties and VAT exemption on importation granted for goods needed to combat the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak during 2020