Will brand new electronics be taxed in Singapore?

by TingPing
(Taiwan)

Is it true that one will be taxed should he bring in brand new (unopened) electronics into Singapore? (Eg. Laptops) I've been asked to purchase a laptop from overseas and bring it back to Singapore for a friend.

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Will brand new electronics be taxed in Singapore?

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Jul 02, 2008
 GST Relief for Bona Fide Travellers to Singapore
by: Gabriel Tan

Hi Ting Ping

assuming you are 18 years old or older, you need NOT pay GST on your laptop computer under any one of the following circumstances:

Circumstance A:

1. You have been away from Singapore for less than 24 hours, and

2. the *GST payable on your laptop is less than S$50.


OR

Circumstance B:

1. You have been away from Singapore for more than 24 hours but less than 48 hours, and

2. the *GST-payable on your laptop is less than S$150.


OR

Circumstance C:

1. You have been away from Singapore for more than 48 hours, and

2. the *GST-payable on your laptop is less than S$300.


*GST-payable = 0.07 X Purchase Price of Laptop (converted to SGD)


If you fall under any of the above circumstances, you're considered a 'bona fide traveller', according to the Singapore Customs. Join the Green Lane and walk through. You have nothing to declare and no taxes to pay.

Else, if your GST-payable exceeds the above-mentioned limits, you need to declare your laptop and pay GST.

Therefore, it's important that you keep the receipt for your purchase, just in case the customs officer wants to see it.

Best regards,
Gabriel
Field Editor
http://www.etour-singapore.com

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