Press Release: Taxation and Customs: Commission sets out actions to boost European competitiveness

The European Commission on 26 October 2005 adopted a comprehensive plan of EU-wide taxation and customs measures that would help the EU to achieve its Lisbon objectives. The plan listed existing and forthcoming Commission taxation and customs initiatives aimed at reducing compliance costs and red tape; helping Member States to maintain stable revenue streams; generating more competition in the markets; boosting trade; and encouraging research and development. The measures proposed were aimed at reducing the negative effects which co-existing national tax systems can have on market integration.