Minister of Economy Delays Reform
French VAT exemption Threshold Debate Delayed Until 2026 Budget
PARIS (AP) — A proposed change to France’s Value Added Tax (VAT) exemption threshold remains in limbo, with further discussion postponed until the 2026 budget, according to Economy Minister Éric Lombard. The proposed measure, initially adopted in early February 2025, aimed to lower the VAT exemption threshold to 25,000 euros in annual turnover but was quickly suspended.
During a goverment question session on Wednesday, Lombard stated his intention to ”let the debate stand calmly within the framework of the 2026 finance bill,” signaling a delay in addressing the concerns surrounding the threshold reduction.
Building Sector Concerns Await Resolution
The building sector had previously voiced support for lowering the VAT exemption threshold, arguing it would create a more level playing field between customary craftsmen and micro-entrepreneurs. Currently, micro-entrepreneurs benefit from higher VAT exemption thresholds: 85,000 euros for commercial activities and accommodation, and 37,500 euros for services and liberal activities. This, according to industry representatives, puts craftsmen at a disadvantage.
Following the suspension declaration, both the French Building Federation (FFB) and the Confederation of Crafts and Small Building Companies (CAPEB) expressed their disappointment.Thay will now have to wait longer for a resolution.
Despite the delay, Lombard offered reassurance to the building sector. “We will propose a more balanced reform by trying to account for situations of strong competition, in particular the building, for which we must take the achievements of the reform with a threshold reduced to 25,000 euros per year,” he said during the session.
French VAT Exemption Threshold: Your FAQ Guide
What’s the latest on the French VAT exemption threshold debate?
The proposed changes to the French Value Added Tax (VAT) exemption threshold have been delayed. According to Economy Minister Éric lombard,further discussion is postponed until the 2026 budget.
What was the proposed change to the VAT exemption?
The initial plan, adopted in early February 2025, was to lower the VAT exemption threshold to 25,000 euros in annual turnover. Though,this measure was quickly suspended.
Why was the VAT exemption change suspended?
The article does not explicitly state the reasons for the suspension. It indicates that there are concerns surrounding the proposed threshold reduction.
What are the current VAT exemption thresholds in France?
Currently, the exemption thresholds for micro-entrepreneurs are higher than what was proposed.
What are the specific VAT exemption thresholds for micro-entrepreneurs?
Commercial Activities and accommodation: 85,000 euros
Services and Liberal Activities: 37,500 euros
Who is affected by these VAT exemption thresholds?
The debate primarily affects:
Micro-entrepreneurs
Customary craftsmen
The French Building Federation (FFB)
The Confederation of Crafts and Small Building Companies (CAPEB)
How does the proposed change impact the building sector?
The building sector had previously supported lowering the VAT exemption threshold, believing it would create a more level playing field for craftsmen competing with micro-entrepreneurs. the delay means they must wait longer for a resolution.
What’s the central argument regarding the VAT thresholds?
The central argument revolves around the perceived disparity between customary craftsmen and micro-entrepreneurs, who currently benefit from higher VAT exemption thresholds. Industry representatives argue that this puts craftsmen at a disadvantage.
What reassurance did Economy Minister Éric Lombard give to the building sector?
Lombard stated that the government would propose a “more balanced reform” accounting for strong competition, especially in the building sector. He also noted that they ”must take the achievements of the reform with a threshold reduced to 25,000 euros per year,” implying that the 25,000 threshold is still considered a key element of the reform.
Can you summarize the key differences in exemption thresholds?
| Activity | Current Threshold (Micro-entrepreneurs) | Proposed Threshold |
| :————————————- | :————————————– | :———————————- |
| Commercial Activities & Accommodation | 85,000 euros | 25,000 euros (As initially proposed) |
| Services & Liberal Activities | 37,500 euros | 25,000 euros (As initially proposed) |
When will this issue be addressed?
The debate is postponed,with further discussion planned within the framework of the 2026 finance bill.