Today marks a significant milestone in the fight against international tax fraud as the first trial under the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) begins in Lisbon, Portugal. Twenty-six defendants, including individuals and companies, are facing serious charges related to a complex VAT fraud scheme that spanned multiple countries.
The trial, which commenced on October 31, 2024, at the Central Criminal Court of Lisbon, involves nine Portuguese and two French nationals accused of orchestrating a criminal organization that sold electronic goods in the EU while evading VAT payments. The alleged fraudulent activities occurred between 2016 and November 2022.
The court has scheduled a total of 17 hearings, with the trial expected to continue every Monday and Thursday as necessary until its conclusion. If found guilty, the defendants could face severe penalties, including up to 8 years in prison for each count of criminal association, money laundering, and qualified tax fraud.
The investigation, codenamed Admiral, has revealed staggering financial implications. The estimated damage in Portugal alone exceeds €80 million, while the total losses to the EU and affected national budgets could reach €2.9 billion. This case highlights the extensive impact of VAT fraud on the financial interests of the European Union.
