European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) issued an opinion on the European Commission’s proposal to amend Regulation (EU) No 904/2010, which would grant the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the European Anti‑Fraud Office (OLAF) specific direct and centralised access to VAT data at EU level. The EDPS says the proposal is urgent to combat large‑scale cross‑border VAT fraud, especially Missing Trader Intra‑Community schemes that cost public finances. It welcomes the limited and targeted nature of the access, noting it is necessary for effective investigations and enforcement. However, the EDPS warns that the proposal sits between administrative VAT cooperation and criminal law enforcement, and must preserve clear legal separation and safeguards. It calls for stronger purpose limitation, data minimisation and accountability, and stresses that the exceptional nature of such access should be clearly documented to prevent future misuse.
© European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS).
Summary adapted from material on the EDPS website (https://edps.europa.eu )
https://www.edps.europa.eu/press-publications/press-news/press-releases/2026/edps-supports-targeted-vat-data-access-fight-fraud-eu-level-warns-against-blurring-administrative-and-criminal-boundaries
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