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Sellers cut 20% on import costs as buyers save 20% on purchases
The Thai government announced the lift of 20% tax on imported gems and jewellery products to be sold at the 52nd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair (BGJF52) this coming September.
Foreign exhibitors will be allowed to bring in and sell gems and jewellery from other countries duty-free, while local exhibitors can reduce their selling prices after cutting down on imported parts and products’ costs. Thus, both local and foreign buyers at the fair can take advantage of 20% savings, giving them additional purchasing power at the Fair.
“We are privileged to have the government working alongside us so directly,” says Somchai Phornchindarak, President of the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA) and Chairman of the Gems, Jewelry and Precious Metal Confederation of Thailand. He said the government decision came at the heels of TGJTA’s strong advocacy for a concessional duty rate of 0%, and they are happy to see their requests granted.
“The government has been with us every step of the way, helping to promote exports as well as developing overseas markets via trade fairs, road shows and exceptional exhibitions. All these changes predict a gleaming future for all,” added Phornchindarak.
The concession is considered as a temporary grace period (15 days before/ after the BGJF52) for everyone attending and participating in the BGJF52. Products to be covered by the measure are pearls, precious stones and metals, imitation jewelry and coins – all categories that fall under the International Trade Commission (ITC)’s Harmonized System Code, Chapter 71.
The import duty-free incentive can only be availed of at the BGJF52 though, by exhibitors endorsed by TGJTA. Sellers who are not endorsed would still have to pay the standard 20% import tax. Moreover, the regular 7% Value Added Tax still applies to all exhibitors, local and foreign.
The 52nd BJGF, scheduled this September 6 to 10 at Bangkok’s IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center, is expected to draw tens of thousands of buyers from all around the world.
