The Government has announced a temporary relief from import VAT and duty on imports of personal protective equipment and other equipment used in the treatment of Covid-19.
The goods must be imported by or on behalf of state organisations, including those bodies governed by public law, or by or on behalf of approved charitable and philanthropic organisations.
The temporary relief applies to qualifying goods imported to the UK on or after 30 January 2020 until 31 October 2020. Those importing on behalf of one of the bodies listed above and wishing to claim relief must obtain permission from the National Import Relief Unit.
Refunds of VAT and duty already paid on imports of qualifying goods can be claimed.