Romania’s tax authority ANAF has started to check individuals who gained income between 2006 and 2010 from independent activities, copyright and collaboration contracts above the cap allowing VAT exemptions. "Following a risk analysis, ANAF found there are individuals who gained income from independent activities, copyright and collaboration contracts exceeding the VAT exemption cap but have not registered to pay this tax," the tax authority said in a press release Sunday.

The people under scrutiny include journalists, financial and political analysts, artists and talk show hosts. "Although we are aware of the media attacks that will target the institution over these check-ups, no one is above the law," said ANAF head Sorin Blejnar. Romania's tax law states value added tax is perceived for annual income exceeding EUR 35,000.

Mediafax