Malaysia Scraps High Value Goods Tax (HVGT)

KUALA LUMPUR, July 2025 β Great news for travelers and shoppers! Malaysia has officially scrapped its plan to implement the High-Value Goods Tax (HVGT). Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that the government will no longer proceed with the standalone luxury goods tax.
β Good News for Shoppers & Travelers
The Malaysian government, led by PM Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has officially scrapped the proposed HVGT. This tax would have imposed an additional 5%β10% levy on luxury goods, such as:
- Branded watches & jewellery
- Designer handbags
- High-end electronics and fashion items
Tourists planning to shop in Malaysia β especially for luxury souvenirs or gifts β can now breathe easy:
ποΈ No separate HVGT means lower total cost at checkout for these items.
π Replaced by Revised Sales Tax (SST)
Instead of HVGT, the revised Sales Tax now covers luxury and discretionary goods at:
- 5% or 10% SST, depending on product category
π‘ Tourist Impact: While tax still applies, it’s more streamlined and doesnβt involve a special luxury tax layer.

πΌ Fiscal Reforms, Not Tourist Burden
Malaysiaβs broader fiscal reforms (e.g., diesel subsidy rationalisation, Capital Gains Tax on unlisted shares, Low-Value Goods Tax) aim to boost national revenue without burdening everyday shoppers or tourists.
βοΈ Why This Is a Win for MyTrip.my Travelers
- π Simplified tax experience β no confusion at checkout
- πΈ Saves on luxury purchases (especially compared to countries with both SST + HVGT)
- π§Ύ Only one tier of tax to understand for most goods
- π Malaysia remains a competitive shopping destination in Southeast Asia
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