What does the postponed accounting/reverse charge system mean?

The concept of postponed accounting, also known as the reverse charge mechanism, means that businesses can account for VAT on imports directly in their VAT return. This allows for the VAT to effectively net to zero, as the VAT input claimed can offset the VAT output.

When a business imports goods, it is required to pay VAT on those goods. However, with postponed accounting, instead of paying this VAT upfront at the border, the business records the VAT on its import in its VAT return. This mechanism simplifies cash flow, as the business does not have to make an immediate cash payment for VAT upon importation, which can be especially beneficial for managing working capital.

In this context, the other options do not accurately describe the detail and functionality of the postponed accounting system. For instance, import VAT being charged by suppliers does not relate to the reverse charge mechanism, and stating that postponed accounting applies only to exports misunderstands its primary focus on imports. Moreover, the idea that VAT on imports is excluded from VAT returns contradicts the very premise of the postponed accounting system, which incorporates that VAT into the returns while allowing for a net zero effect.