Tourist VAT refund scheme on track

Submitted by TemoL on Thu, 28/01/2010 - 6:56am

FIRCA chief executive Jitoko Tikolevu said all has been finalised in terms of issuing refunds.

“The actual issuing of license has been done to the 42 license operators and these are the only ones that will be allowed to claim for refunds for those tourists that purchase goods from these 42 operators,” Mr Tikolevu said.

Tourism Fiji Chairman Patrick Wong acknowledged Government's efforts in recognising the importance of shopping within the local community complimenting the Fijian holiday experience.

“The attractions with this scheme is the “value for dollar” on the items sold, inclusive with the purchasing power of their foreign currency," Mr Wong said.

This scheme and the return of the shopping experience will compliment Fiji’s tourism at the same time create more economic activity, employment, increase foreign exchange earnings and the multiplier effect of the tourism dollar,” Mr Wong added.

The “value for dollar” shopping experience will see more cruise vessels visiting Fiji ports.

Mr Wong added that the scheme follows the practice in other tourist destinations around the globe, although varying in type, but with the aim of attracting more visitors.