Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what is their estimate of the potential increase in annual revenue of online marketplaces collecting VAT on all sales to UK residents, regardless of the identity of the seller; and what, if any, are their objections to so doing.

Since 1 January 2021, online marketplaces are required to register and account for VAT for supplies of low value imports of £135 or less facilitated by their platforms. Where an overseas seller sells goods located in the UK at the point of sale via an online marketplace, the online marketplace is liable for the VAT for goods of any value.

The Government is aware that some compliance challenges still persist and therefore recently announced it will explore the merits of reform to online marketplace liability. If any policy decisions are taken, their impact will be considered in the normal way.