European Parliament approves report on VAT fraud information access

On Wednesday in Strasbourg, the European Parliament plenary session approved the report titled 'European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) and European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF): access to VAT-related information at Union level.' The report was steered by Cypriot Member of the European Parliament Michalis Hatzipantela, representing the EPP group. The motion passed with 549 votes in favor, 33 against, and 84 abstentions out of 666 total voters. Hatzipantela characterized cross-border VAT fraud as a major economic crime that results in significant loss of public revenue. The adopted provisions aim to improve cooperation between Eurofisc, the EPPO, and OLAF to better track illicit activities. The plan establishes a framework for centralized access to necessary VAT data while maintaining strict adherence to personal data protection regulations. The rapporteur noted that recovering these funds could provide substantial resources for public sectors such as healthcare, education, and innovation.