Cheaper tax-free shopping

15 September 2016
Cheaper tax-free shopping

Following a proposal by Minister of Finance Johan Van Overtveldt, the Belgian Government has decided to reduce the minimum purchase amount for VAT-free shopping for non-EU tourists from 125 to 50 euros. The reduction is aimed at stimulating tourism. “More tourism means more income for the hospitality sector,” Johan Van Overtveldt says. “It is therefore a stimulus for our whole economy.”

The tourism sector in Europe, and in Belgium in particular, is still suffering badly from the terrorist attacks. “With this measure we are making it easier for non-European tourists to make purchases in Belgium. At the same time we are giving the necessary support to sectors that are currently having a tough time,” Johan Van Overtveldt explains. Non-European tourists make a significant contribution to many sectors, from textile retailers, department stores, gift shops, museum shops and chocolate shops to hospitality outlets.

Fourth most expensive country

Until now, Belgium was the fourth most expensive country for non-European tourists to shop tax-free in. “Thanks to this measure we now have a purchase threshold that is comparable with most other European countries,” Johan Van Overtveldt concludes.

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