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Duty Free - How Can It Save Your Money?

May 13, 2023

What is duty-free and what do you pay duty on?

Duty refers to the taxes and customs fees imposed on certain goods when they are imported or exported between countries. These charges are typically levied by governments to generate revenue and regulate the flow of goods.

The items on which you may need to pay duty can vary depending on the country and its specific regulations. However, some common categories include alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, cosmetics, electronics and gadgets.

Under ordinary circumstances, host countries expect you to pay an import, sales, value-added (VAT), or local tax on goods you buy. However, when shopping in international airports, sea terminals, onboard cruise ships, and during international airline flights your purchase is made in no man’s land.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  1. Duty-free shopping allows travelers to purchase items without paying tax on them. 
  2. In the border between Cambodia & Viet Nam, be aware of the limits on the quantity and value of duty-free goods you can purchase. These limits may vary depending on the specific items and regulations in each country.
  3. In the EU, products purchased in-between countries are taxable, but items you buy while traveling to, or away from, an EU country are duty-refund, and travelers can apply for a refund of the taxes they paid on such products.
  4. International airports have duty-free shops that carry luxury goods—but watch out for potentially high markups on the products. 
  5. In the U.S., you must fill out a U.S. Customs Form, often during your flight home, to declare any purchases made abroad.

 

Duty-free shops often sell premium branded high markup goods that evoke luxury or vice (cigars and cigarettes can be found in duty-free shops) or sell upscale tourist items from the host country.

Come to Las Vegas Sun Hotel & Casino, do some savvy shopping and bring home remarkable presents for your loved ones or yourself.