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  • Tai-Want It All: A Guide to Tax-Free Shopping in Taiwan

    Louise Sicat
    Louise Sicat
    Last updated 17 May 2024
    taiwan skyline and cityscape

    Get more bang for your buck in Taiwan!

    Taiwan is a shopping mecca for any tourist, boasting bustling night markets, chic boutiques, and high-end department stores. But did you know you can stretch your pocket money even further by taking advantage of their tourist tax refund program while shopping in Taiwan? That's right, you can get a 5% refund on the Value-Added Tax (VAT) for qualifying purchases!

    Enjoy 6% on us!

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    More to love in Taiwan!

    Unlocking the Savings:
    • Who's Eligible: This program applies to foreign tourists staying in Taiwan for less than 183 days.
    • Minimum Spend: You need to spend at least NT$2,000 (around $65 USD) at a store displaying the "Taiwan Tax Refund" label on a single day. Note that some department stores, like Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, have a slightly higher minimum spend of NT$3,000 (around $95 USD).
    • Claiming Your Refund: Keep your receipts and completed tax refund forms. You can claim your refund at the airport, designated ports, or even some shopping malls before departure. Don't forget to bring your passport and have the purchased items with you for inspection by customs officers. Taiwan shopping just got better!
    Shopping Savvy: Where to Find the Best Deals
    Now that you know the basics, let's explore some stores perfect for tax-free shopping in Taiwan:
    • Department Stores: Luxurious havens like Taipei 101 Mall, SOGO, and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi offer a delightful mix of international brands, local designers, and electronics. They often have special promotions and sales, making them a great option for fashion finds and luxury goods.
    • Night Markets: Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Taiwan's night markets, like Shilin Night Market or Raohe Street Night Market. This is the spirit of Taiwan shopping! Here you can find everything from trendy clothing and accessories to delicious street food and unique souvenirs, all at bargain prices.
    • Independent Boutiques: Explore the charming streets of Ximending or explore independent shops in other districts. These stores often have unique collections of clothing, handcrafted goods, and local art, allowing you to bring home a piece of Taiwan's creative spirit.
    • Tax Refund Counters: While some stores handle tax refunds directly, some malls have dedicated counters. Shopping in taiwan is all about convenience, take advantage of these counters for a smooth tax refund process, especially if you've made purchases from multiple stores within the same mall.
    Bonus Tip: While tax-free shopping in Taiwan offers great savings, remember to factor in the handling fee charged by refund agencies (usually around 14%).
    Shop smart, explore Taiwan's diverse shopping scene, and maximize your savings with this guide to tax-free shopping!