Cyprus – Temporary Zero VAT Rate on Meat and Fish

 As part of a broader government strategy to combat rising inflation and support household purchasing power, Cyprus has officially implemented a temporary zero-rate VAT on fresh, chilled, or frozen meat and fish. According to the Tax Department, this measure is in effect from 6th April 2026, through to the 30th September 30 2026.

The initiative, approved by the Council of Ministers and published in the Official Gazette, adds these essential protein items to a list of other products already under a zero VAT rate.

Covered Products (0% VAT)
The zero-rate applies specifically to unprocessed products, including:

– Meat: Fresh, chilled, or frozen beef, pork, sheep, and goat meat.
– Poultry: Fresh, chilled, or frozen poultry meat and edible offal (including chicken).
– Specialty Meat: Rabbit and hare meat and edible offal.
– Fish: Fresh, chilled, or frozen fish.
– Seafood: Cuttlefish, squid, and octopus.

Products Remaining at 5% VAT
The Tax Department clarified that the measure does not apply to processed, marinated, or prepared meat and fish products. These items will remain at the reduced 5% VAT rate:

Other measures in effect during this period include:

– Electricity: A 5% VAT rate on electricity for all residential consumers from 1st May 2026 to 31st March 2027.
– Fuel: A reduction in excise duty on motor fuels from April to June 2026.
– Essential Goods: The zero-rate VAT on bread, milk, eggs, baby food, and diapers is already in place, with many of these expected to continue until 31st December 2026