Singapore has plenty places to shop, this is becoming major attractions in this country. Many “crazy” shoppers enjoyed shopping in Singapore, especially from neighboring country. They said some good are very cheap in Singapore, if it is compared than their home prices. Tax free is the main reason of cheap prices, this is because Singapore had free trade agreement with major industry country, like US.
However in recent years, tariffs dropping everywhere around the world, Singapore is not the shopper’s heaven anymore. The prices of items may vary or similar with your home prices. Before you buy any good, you should know the prices at home, and shop around to compare the prices. Singapore also has some local industries to protect, that’s why the prices may vary in every items.
Shopping in Singapore for items with international guarantees.
Guarantees are the important consideration if you are buying items, like laptop, handphones, camera, etc. Make sure your guarantee is international and is filled out correctly with shop’s name and serial number of the item. Then make sure also the service center of that item is available in your country. Mostly branded products have service center around the world, but not all products.
Some shoppers are reseller also, this mean they search the product to be resold in their own home. Usually they get good connection by visiting shops which having connection with big manufactures. Singapore is big hubs for traders in the region, especially in south-east Asian country.
Shopping in Singapore for compatible product only.
When you buy electronic appliance, you should consider item’s compatibility back home. You don’t want to buy a brand or model, which there are no spare or agents back home. Usually only good branded has an agent worldwide.
Check for the right voltage and cycle when you buy electronic goods. Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, UK and New Zealand operate at a voltage of 220 volt to 240 volt at frequency of 50 Hz, while USA, Canada and Japan use 110 volt to 120 volt at 60 Hz. Mostly electronic good have an switch option between 110 and 220, so will be no big deal. However check the plug also, may be not fit with current in your country.
Tax free shopping in Singapore.
Almost all good and service are levied with 3% Good and Service Tax(GST). A tax refund on goods worth S$ 300 or more can be applied for through shops participating in the GST Tourist Refund Scheme. These shops display “tax free shopping” logo, thought often it’s more hassle than it’s worth.
When you purchase an item you must fill in a claim form and show your passport. Then you will receive global refund cheque. Present this cheque and your passport in the custom at Changi Airport. Custom then stamp your cheque, which you can then cash at the cash refund counter at the airport.
