The Government adopted late Thursday the draft-law on financial support of employers affected by the health-economic crisis caused by COVID-19 for payment of salaries for the months of October, November and December.

The law regulates the conditions and procedure for employers to obtain financial support, the Government said in a press release.

The Government also adopted the amendments to the law on value added tax.

As of 1 January 2021, donations provided to budget beneficiaries to fight COVID-19 will be exempted from VAT, while the deadline for payment of VAT by companies will be delayed in order to support their liquidity.

E-invoices will be used for the purpose of facilitating the process of issuance, transfer and reception of invoices.

A provision on a 10-percent tax rate for sale of food and beverages, as well as catering services, with the exception of alcoholic beverages, will enter into force on 1 January 2021. Moreover, a 5-percent tax rate for certain crafts’ services will also be enforced on the same date.

In addition, the Government adopted the amendments to the regulation on instruction in extraordinary circumstances in elementary and secondary schools, drafted by the Education Development Bureau and the Center for Vocational Education and Training, according to which pupils will be graded without the need for physical attendance.