Tourists to get speedy GST refund soon

TOURISTS to Singapore will soon be able get refunds on goods and services tax (GST) more easily through a new service starting at the end of the year. 

Global Refund tax refund services and electronic payment provider Network for Electronic Transfers Singapore (NETS) yesterday signed a deal to provide this service. 

Using NETS payment terminals at Global Refund's 3,000 affiliated shops here, tourists can get a printout of GST refund forms for their purchases. 

They then only have to produce these receipts at the GST refund counter at Changi Airport or at a downtown cash refund centre at Funan IT Mall to get their money back on the spot. 

Currently, they have to fill out claim forms to exchange for cash at the airport when they leave. 

Because Global Refund offers tax refund services at more than 225,000 merchant outlets worldwide, in 37 countries, this service also benefits the Singapore consumer. 

Singaporeans who buy taxed items in countries where Global Refund is represented will have the convenience of getting their tax refund in cash when they reach home. 

They only have to produce an endorsed tax claim form at the two outlets in Singapore. – The Straits Times/Asia News Network