A leading German customs and finance union representative is advocating for the elimination of specific exemptions from vehicle tax (Kfz-Steuer) currently afforded to certain professional groups. Thomas Liebel, chairman of the BDZ (Bund der Zöllner und Finanzwächter), voiced his concerns to the “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung” arguing that the reduced tariffs for travelling showmen and farmers create unnecessary administrative burdens for both taxpayers and customs officials.
Liebel highlighted the resource-intensive verification processes associated with these tax reliefs, stating they consume a disproportionate amount of paperwork and personnel. He pointed to the challenges in automating these procedures within Germany’s comparatively slow digitalization landscape.
He suggested that abolishing these exemptions could offer an opportunity to reduce the overall vehicle tax burden for all citizens, freeing up funds for broader tax relief measures. The proposal aims to streamline processes and reduce administrative overhead impacting both government agencies and the taxpayer community.
