European Public Prosecutor's Office investigates cross-border VAT fraud ring

The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) has conducted extensive investigations and seizures in the Attica and Kastoria regions of Greece as part of an inquiry into a VAT carousel fraud scheme. The investigation, which began approximately one year ago, focuses on the illicit trade of small electronic goods and money laundering. Authorities have linked the operation to a network of companies established in Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and the Czech Republic. The scheme allegedly utilized 'missing trader' entities between 2021 and 2025 to evade VAT obligations or to fraudulently claim tax refunds. Products were distributed across various EU member states to facilitate these illegal transactions. The investigation remains ongoing in collaboration with national authorities in the affected countries. While the exact financial damage is currently being assessed, the EPPO continues to map the complex structure of the criminal network.