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Japan Might Cancel Tax-Free Shopping for Foreign Tourists – Expert Recommends Shopping Amid Low Yen Rate

Japan Might Cancel Tax-Free Shopping for Foreign Tourists – Expert Recommends Shopping Amid Low Yen Rate

As Japan's tourism industry rebounds, a renewed discussion arises regarding the tax-free shopping system for foreign tourists. Recently, Taro Aso, a senior adviser of the Liberal Democratic Party, stated that a specialized group has been formed to consider the cancellation of the tax refund system for foreign visitors, with a potential shift towards refunds only for specific Japanese products.

This news has attracted significant attention from Taiwanese citizens. Travel expert Lin Shih-pi reassures that 'there's no need to panic', noting that there are still many variables involved. He believes that a complete abolition of the tax-free system would have too great an impact, making short-term implementation unlikely. However, he suggests that people take advantage of the current low yen rates to make early purchases.

According to reports, last year, the tax-free amount exceeded 200 billion yen. Aso highlighted that the consumption generated by foreign visitors around tax-free policies often fails to effectively benefit Japanese industries, thus necessitating a reevaluation of these policies.

Lin asserts that even if the tax-free system is abolished, it could serve as a solution to issues of tax avoidance that primarily occur with luxury goods. Regardless, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining a watchful stance and seizing the opportunity to purchase amid the low yen rates.