The Local Germany

Here's how Germany's Kinderbonus payments 'boosted economy' in pandemic

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 12:30:14 +0100

Germany's coronavirus cash payment to families was found to be a more efficient and cost-effective way of boosting spending than lowering VAT, a new study shows.

German VAT cut drives demand for new cars

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 18:07:01 +0200

Car registrations in Germany showed this year's smallest monthly drop in July as buyers took advantage of a temporary cut in value added tax, figures released Wednesday showed.

Everything that changes in Germany in July 2020

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 11:38:42 +0200

From higher wages to lower taxes, there's a lot changing in Germany as of Wednesday - and not all of it coronavirus related.

Update: What you should know about Germany's VAT cut

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 12:57:27 +0200

Here's a look at what the VAT reduction will mean for people in Germany.

How much will you save on products with Germany's new VAT reduction?

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 17:36:29 +0200

From July 1st the VAT (value added tax) was reduced for six months, meaning many products will become cheaper. We looked at what that means for you.

Coalition considers retracting tax break for hotels

Sat, 29 May 2010 13:21:00 +0200

The German government is considering retracting the much-criticised reduction in sales tax for hotel stays, which came into force on January 1. The measure is one of several aimed at shoring up Germany's ailing state finances.

FDP under fire for large donation from hotel magnate

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 15:15:00 +0100

The Free Democratic Party (FDP) received more than €1 million from one single donor – a baron whose company will profit from the reduction in value added tax on hotel bills recently enacted by the new government.

Critics say Merkel's tax cuts for hotels could stimulate sex trade

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:56:00 +0100

Members of Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservative Christian Democrats are worried proposed cuts in hotel sales tax could boost prostitution by making hourly establishments cheaper, daily Süddeutsche Zeitung reported on Wednesday.

Government approves €8.5-bln fiscal package

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:24:00 +0100

The German government on Monday adopted a package of fiscal measures worth €8.5 billion ($12.7 billion) including tax cuts and benefits aimed at underpinning economic growth.

Merkel rules out raising sales tax

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 13:50:00 +0200

Chancellor Angela Merkel Saturday ruled out raising VAT, or sales tax, should her Christian Democrat party win next month's general election.

Conservatives mulling higher VAT after vote

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:56:00 +0200

Chancellor Angela Merkel’s conservatives are considering raising Germany’s value-added tax rate, daily Bild reported on Thursday.

Germany leads opposition to EU sales tax cuts

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 16:53:00 +0200

EU finance ministers clashed Saturday on whether to shake up European sales tax rules to allow reduced rates for targeted services and products, with Germany a vocal opponent to any cuts.