Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the taxation policies related to the catering industry, specifically focusing on the Value Added Tax (VAT) obligations for different types of sales and services provided by catering businesses [2][4][5]. Group 1: VAT on Food Sales - Catering businesses that prepare food on-site and sell directly to consumers are required to pay VAT under "catering services" [2][3]. - For takeout food sold by catering businesses, VAT is also calculated under "catering services" [3]. - When catering businesses sell purchased goods like beverages and agricultural products without further processing, VAT is calculated based on the applicable tax rate for those goods [3][4]. Group 2: VAT Exemptions and Reductions - From January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2027, small-scale VAT taxpayers with monthly sales below 100,000 yuan are exempt from VAT [5][6]. - Small-scale VAT taxpayers that previously applied a 3% tax rate can now apply a reduced rate of 1% on taxable sales [5][6]. Group 3: VAT Refund Policies - Since July 1, 2022, the policy for full refund of VAT credits has been expanded to include the catering industry, allowing for monthly full refunds of incremental VAT credits [7][8]. Group 4: Input Tax Deductions - General VAT taxpayers in the catering industry can deduct input tax when purchasing agricultural products from producers, using tax authority-approved invoices [10][11].