Indirect taxes and global trade

In recent years, issues related to managing indirect taxes — such as VAT, GST, customs and excise duties — have risen on the corporate agenda.

What EY can do for you

Knowing the indirect tax rules for your business operations and applying them correctly are key to avoid assessments, penalties and goods blocked on airports, harbors, roads, etc. Taxpayers and tax administrators do not always agree about the rules. Complex local legislation, evolving business models and widely different compliance obligations in different jurisdictions add to the risk of disagreements.

We can advise you on the steps to take to strategically meet your tax obligations and resolve tax controversy. We foster an open dialogue with customs authorities, government officials, business partners and other stakeholders about customs and international trade issues, the impact of policy decisions and the importance of free trade.

Indirect tax symposium highlights 


TradeFlash July 2025

In this issue, we highlight key global trade updates, share practical guidance on emerging compliance trends, and provide access to EY thought leadership, including articles, webcasts, and podcasts. 

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Worldwide VAT, GST and Sales Tax Guide

Outlining value-added tax (VAT) systems in 150 jurisdictions, the 2025 edition of our Worldwide VAT, GST and Sales Tax Guide is now available.

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Our latest thinking

Seven ways early adopters are managing pre-populated VAT returns 

Here are the key lessons learned by multinationals dealing with reduced remediation and increased VAT scrutiny triggered by pre-population.

How disruption is shaping opportunities for global trade

In the face of continued geopolitical uncertainty, indirect tax and trade functions have an opportunity to show their real value. Find out more.

How to prepare for upcoming combined royalty changes

CFOs and tax functions may be inclined to treat customs issues as peripheral to their critical workload, but they must pay attention. Learn more.

    Podcast: How unilateral digital services taxes put global tax reforms in motion

    This episode of Tax and Law in Focus explores how the proliferation of DSTs has helped fast-track BEPS 2.0, triggering the biggest shake-up in international taxation for decades.

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