European Commission Seeks Permanent Minimum VAT Rate

The European Commission has proposed a Council Directive that would make permanent a minimum standard VAT rate of 15% for all Member States. The 15% minimum rate currently exists as a "transitional" measure, though it has been extended six times since its enactment in 1992. 

If approved, the permanent 15% minimum rate of VAT would take effect on January 1, 2018.