Germany moves to end VAT exemption for business mail

DHL AG

14/10/2026 11:54

BERLIN, Oct 14 (Reuters) - The German government plans to eliminate tax advantages enjoyed by Deutsche Post DHLn.DE and some competitors for business customer mail.
The German cabinet approved two proposals from the economy and finance ministries.
The amendment to the Postal Act would remove VAT exemptions for business mail, aiming to boost competition and create a level playing field for postal operators.
Business customer mail services offered by DHL's Deutsche Post and some competitors are exempt from value-added tax, while the services of other competitors are not.
In parallel, VAT regulations will be aligned with European Union law.
Deutsche Post did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

 (Reporting by Holger Hansen, additional reporting by Tom Kaeckenhoff, writing by Linda Pasquini, editing by Thomas Seythal)
 ((linda.pasquini@thomsonreuters.com))