French VAT reform highlights value of customs partners

Europa Worldwide Group has strengthened its market position in the wake of new French VAT compliance reforms, introduced on 1 January 2026, which have significantly tightened the conditions for UK exporters moving goods DDP into France and onwards into the EU.

This emphasises how increased regulatory complexity can strengthen the competitive position of vertically integrated logistics operators.

From 1 January 2026, French tax authorities advised that UK businesses exporting goods through France under DDP must either hold their own French VAT number or operate under a compliant structure where the importer of record is established in the EU. 

Andrew Baxter, chief executive officer at Europa Worldwide Group, said: “When cross-border trade becomes more complex, exporters need partners that can respond quickly and keep processes compliant and simple.

“The French VAT reforms have changed the practical steps required to keep DDP moving through France. DDP Flow was built for exactly these conditions. It keeps goods moving, protects the customer experience, and gives exporters clarity and control when the rules change.”