I want to buy a camera from the USA, and i want to have it sent to me here in BKK. Now in the courty i come from if you do this you end up paying import duties on the camera and then VAT as well....

I wonder what is the deal here in TH?

I am not planning on importing heaps of cameras, just one for me.

The price will be about 25,000 Baht.

If i do end up paying VAT, can i get it back on the way out of the country?

Thanks All..

Sneef...............all items bought from overseas and sent vide courier are taxable. If there is no invoice attached, they will tax it based on their previous records or at their whim and fancy. There are stories of some items which have gone "missing".

You do not get the VAT back as the camera was not purchase here in Thailand. VAT refund is only applicable for goods bought in TH.

Only option you have is either have someone bring it to you when he/she comes over from US.

Good luck!

Hand carry it, then there will be no problems.

Alternatively buy the camera here.

Prices are good if you shop around.

Send it as a gift and you should have no problem or at least I would think this would be the case. Don't know for sure though. Damm sure there shouldn't be but we're not in Kansas anymore. Sorry can't be more help.

Cameras at the moment are on a discounted import duty of 5% for most types.

On top of this you pay 7 % VAT.

Value based on cif Bangkok, usually calculated on the value customs 'knows'.

If you send a customs broker you might have to add a handling fee.

Sending it by mail is one way. IF it arrives it will be either in your mail box or you get a notification to pick it up from customs.

All in all, handcarry or ask a friend is the way to do it.