As is traditional in the first issue of each year, the green pull-out section presents the key features of the VAT systems of most European countries (both EU and non-EU), including standard and reduced VAT rates, various thresholds, the format of the VAT identification numbers and contact details of the offices of the national tax administration which process VAT refund applications or provide information to non-resident businesses on national VAT rules. The overview is compiled by the editors on the basis of information provided by the International VAT Monitor’s correspondents at the beginning of 2013.