Thanks for posting Newfie. No good for permanent residents such as SRRV or 13a holders it appears and who in their right mind would bother claiming back the 12% VAT knowing how the system works here and the paperwork and time that comes with it? An interesting thought though. Not quite sure how this is intended to boost tourism unless you buy a few Rolex watches etc.

OMO.

Cheers, Steve.

 

I wonder if even the ling-term tourists here will be able to claim back the 12% VAT?

 

Edit - long-term!

 

Personally HK doesn't bother me as a long term visitor, simply it's a tax we pay and do you think any visitor coming to the Philippines is worried about saving VAT?
I bet there are limits to consider also like Australia with GST reimbursements for visitors with fools trying to take the piss, get caught and lose the lot.
The money I spend here is a lot and the 12% VAT is my contribution for the opportunity to live here in an already wonderful country. Bit like many foreigners wanting the seniors discount,,,,, that is there for the souls that need it to live.

OMO.

Cheers, Steve.

 

Philippines is finally doing what nearly every other nation in Asia already does.

Upon departure they check your port, if you're not a permanent resident, you get the refund.

 

Yes Newfie and no mentions of limits. Golly I have been all over the world over the last 40 years and saving a 10 or 15% tax imposition? Never a part of the equation. A simple holiday.

Cheers, Steve.

 

It's only on goods taken out of the country when leave, minimum item price 3000 peso, sound about as much use as a chocolate teapot.

 

Not quite sure how this is intended to boost tourism unless you buy a few Rolex watches etc.

That's exactly what it's for, and what Ginza and other Japan districts are famous for, watches, jewelry, luxury goods, these refunds save buyers thousands.

It won't help boost sales much with the locals though, wealthy Filipinos know they can just fly to Japan or Singapore, buy the watch and bring it from tax free, like the Prez did with his AP

 

Does it include bullets...or are they classed as 'gifts' ?

 

Graham it is someone clutching at straws, I see very little benefit with this ruling for tourists that visit here for holiday, perhaps a lady, not trinkets, better to put those supposed thinkers to work helping with poverty and abuse of the needy.

Cheers, Steve.

 

Philippines is finally doing what nearly every other nation in Asia already does.

Correction; they aren't actually doing anything yet, the retail stores are clueless.