Following instructions from the Vietnamese Prime Minister, Mr Nguyen Tan Dung, a value-added tax (VAT) refund scheme is being applied in Da Nang from today, 1 July.

Foreigners and overseas Vietnamese can now claim VAT refunds on purchases made from certain participating outlets in Viet Nam when they exit the country through Da Nang Port or Da Nang International Airport, as well as other ports and airports across the country.  They can claim back 85% of the VAT imposed on goods worth more than 2 million VND and purchased within the previous 30 days.  The other 15% VAT will be retained by the Vietnamese authorities as a service fee.

The programme aims to improve the competitiveness of Vietnamese goods and increase the number of international tourist arrivals to Viet Nam.  In addition, it will help to promote the country’s exports to international markets, as well as advertise its cultural values to international friends.

The municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism will work closely with the city's Department of Taxation to ensure effective and speedy operation of the VAT refund scheme in the city.  The Department will also focus on appealing for even more local businesses to participate in the programme, as well as putting some of the locally-made souvenirs and specialities onto the list of the city’s VAT-refundable items.

Previously, the VAT refund scheme had been piloted, but only at the international airports of Noi Bai, Ha Noi and Tan Son Nhat, Ho Chi Minh City.  Now the scheme has been expanded to include not only Da Nang, but also Khanh Hoi Port in Ho Chi Minh City, Cam Ranh International Airport, and Nha Trang Port.