Which of the following supplies allows businesses to reclaim input VAT?

Businesses can reclaim input VAT on supplies that are classified as zero-rated and standard-rated. When a supply is zero-rated, it means that the VAT rate applied to that supply is 0%. This effectively allows businesses to charge no VAT to their customers while being able to reclaim any VAT they have incurred on related expenses. Thus, goods and services that are zero-rated facilitate a net benefit for the business, as they can still recover VAT costs, which can help cash flow.

In contrast, exempt supplies do not allow businesses to reclaim input VAT. Since no VAT is charged on exempt supplies, businesses cannot recover the VAT paid on purchases related to those supplies. Reduced rate and standard-rated supplies also allow input VAT reclaim; however, the question specifically highlights zero-rated supplies as the correct answer, emphasizing their unique position where VAT is charged at the rate of 0%. This distinction is crucial for businesses seeking to manage their VAT obligations effectively.