Entry into force date postponed

The abolition of the RETT exemption for acquisitions of shares in companies owning building land or newly built real estate will enter into force on 1 January 2025, instead of the earlier announced 1 January 2024. 

RETT exemption remains for real estate used for VAT taxed purposes

Further, the RETT exemption will not be abolished for acquisitions of shares in companies owning new real estate that is used for activities allowing at least 90% VAT recovery in the two years following the acquisition. Reasoning behind this exception is that the RETT proposal is aimed at countering VAT saving structures, and such VAT savings are not considered a motive for a share deal in case of at least 90% VAT recovery for the real estate asset. Consequently, share deals with newly built logistical, office and retail real estate should in most cases still qualify for the RETT exemption, as these types of assets are often rented out VAT taxed for at least 90%. 

RETT rate of 4% for share deals with new real estate

To prevent overkill with this proposal, a new RETT rate of maximum 4% will be introduced which will apply to acquisitions of shares in companies with new real estate for which the VAT recovery right is less than 90%. During the construction of this new real estate at least part of the VAT on construction costs is not recoverable, justifying a lower RETT rate than the general rate of 10.4% according to the Ministry of Finance. It is still uncertain whether the RETT rate will be 4% or less, or whether there will be a differentiation depending on the VAT recovery right. 

Transitional law

Lastly, there will be transitional law for ongoing development projects. Acquisitions of shares in companies owning building land or newly built real estate will qualify for the RETT exemption if a letter of intent was signed before the filing of the RETT legislative proposal, which is expected on 19 September 2023 (Budget Day in the Netherlands), provided that the acquisition of the shares takes place ultimately on 1 January 2030. The prospect of this transitional law may prove to be a financial incentive for parties to enter into a letter of intent prior to 19 September 2023. 

Contact

Do you have any questions about the draft RETT proposal? Or would you be interested in an introductory meeting? Please contact your Loyens & Loeff adviser or one of the following contacts.