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.

  • AwesomeLowlander@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    171·
    2 days ago

    That seems fairly standard with most countries having something similar. From the SG govt website,

    If you are a bona fide traveller (excluding holders of work permits, employment passes, student passes, dependent passes or long-term passes), you will be given GST relief on new articles, souvenirs, gifts and food preparations that you bring into Singapore which are for your personal use. The relief does not apply to intoxicating liquor and tobacco, as well as goods imported for commercial purposes.

    I’m guessing this guy fell afoul of the ‘commercial purposes’ clause.

      • AwesomeLowlander@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
        11·
        2 days ago

        I see what you’re saying, but this is one of those things that the news article author (not the law) probably didn’t notice because it just seems like such common knowledge. Used items are considered personal use items and would never be considered for taxing, only new items would be taxable.

        Unless, of course, you’re carrying 30k worth of pokemon cards.