The value of the items exceed the GST import relief granted to travellers. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.zip/post/50962591

The Singapore Customs is investigating a case where a man entering Singapore did not declare that he was in possession of assorted Pokemon trading cards worth more than $30,000 in total.

  • MachineFab812@discuss.tchncs.deEnglish
    1·
    7 months ago

    Not that he’s not reselling them, but paying a 9% tax for every single item you posses beyond $500 in value every time you cross the border is just absurd. Remind me to never take my laptop, phone, or a decent camera anywhere near Singapore.

    All that aside, I thought the idea of customs and import duties was versus new items, not things that can be picked-up at a second-hand store or pawn shop. If he provided itemized receipts, would they even believe him if the prices weren’t high-enough? … or were “too old”?

    • AwesomeLowlander@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
      0·
      7 months ago

      paying a 9% tax for every single item you posses beyond $500 in value every time you cross the border is just absurd.

      It would be if that were the case. What makes you think it is?

      • halcyoncmdr@lemmy.worldEnglish
        1·
        7 months ago

        Probably the wording in the article that seems to say exactly that?

        The Singapore Government’s Factually website states that all goods brought into Singapore are subject to goods and services tax, currently pegged at 9 per cent. However, travellers are granted GST import relief based on the duration of their trip.

        Those who have been overseas for 48 hours or more are entitled to GST relief of up to $500. For trips under 48 hours, the value is capped at $100. The GST rate is currently pegged at 9 per cent.

        These amounts apply to the total value of goods bought overseas, excluding liquor and tobacco. Any value above the relief limit is taxable, and travellers are required to declare it upon or prior to arrival.

        Singapore work permit, employment pass, student pass, dependent pass or long-term pass holders, as well as crew, are not entitled to GST import relief.

        The term goods isn’t specified, but could easily be interpreted to mean absolutely anything they want potentially.