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Less than two weeks into the implementation of the Tourist VAT refund scheme and the Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority (FIRCA) has already issued about 50 refunds.
FIRCA Chief Executive, Jitoko Tikolevu said the number was an indication that tourists are now aware about the scheme and are utilizing it.
The new scheme allows tourists spending more than FJD$500 while in the country, to claim a tax refund upon departure.
Tikolevu admitted having faced with some problems in the beginning of the implementation which have since been resolved.
“Since the inception, we are continuously meeting the key stakeholders to discuss any issues and resolve them to ensure effective implementation,” he said.
FIRCA is looking at conducting a post-implementation workshop in March with the retailers and other stakeholders to discuss issues arising from the scheme and overall improvements to the scheme.
“Goods exported for business or commercial purpose, partly consumed goods, unaccompanied goods and those that are not presented for inspection at the VAT Refund Inspection Counter are not legible for refund,” Tikolevu said.
FIRCA he said, is of the view that the inception of this scheme will provide a boost to Fiji’s tourism industry and in positioning Fiji as a competitive shopping destination for tourists.
“The retailers will benefit from the scheme in terms of marketing their products to tourists,” he said.
