Import VAT on goods from China

[TinglyandCurious]

Hi,

I’m hoping to buy my husband a watch from Hong Kong for his birthday. It’s usually £1600 but has been discounted to £800. I was wondering will I pay the 20% import VAT on its original price or the sale price? If the former it becomes unviable if the latter much more doable. I know we will have to pay duty costs etc too.

Thanks in advance 🙂

Can you have someone bring it over for you

It should only be on the price you actually pay for it. That said, I know some online retailers abroad can fill in the customs declaration wrong and put the original price. Perhaps contact the retailer and check in advance?

@user1494050295 I don’t know anyone in that area of the world unfortunately.

@viccat thank you! That’s good to know. Will email them to check 🙂