Save not just 8% but also file combined returns！Japan’s new tax exemption system takes effect

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team compiled & reported

Good news for those who love traveling and shopping in Japan—the Japanese government has once again relaxed the conditions for tax-free shopping. The Japan Tourism Agency under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism announced that starting July 1, 2018, regardless of product category, anyone spending an untaxed total of 5,000 yen (tax included 5,400 yen) or more can be exempted from the 8% consumption tax.

In the past, the Japanese government classified goods into two main categories: “general goods,” which include clothing, electronics, jewelry, and handicrafts, and “consumables,” such as medicine, cosmetics, health products, and alcohol. The two categories could not be combined for tax exemption, and had to be purchased on the same day at the same store, with an untaxed amount of at least 5,000 yen to qualify for tax exemption.

The newly implemented tax exemption system significantly lowers the threshold compared to before—both “general goods” and “consumables” can now be combined for tax refund processing. As long as the untaxed total spending reaches 5,000 yen or more, the 8% consumption tax will be waived.

It is important to note that tax-refunded items must be packed in tax-free bags and cannot be used within Japan. They must be taken out of Japan within 30 days of purchase, otherwise the tax will be reclaimed.
 

These three types of people are exempt！Japan’s departure tax information

》https://www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=17705