Friday, 18th March 2005 (4352 views)

Holidaymakers and jewellers alike are set to welcome changes to the duty free limit, unveiled by the chancellor this week.

The duty free limit is to be revamped and travellers will be able to benefit, with purchases on jewellery set to increase even further, according to the Guardian.

Long-haul passengers from Britain and other European states could bring up to £1,000 of shopping back from areas outside the EU, without having to pay duty or tax.

The limit had been set at £145 since 1994, before Mr Brown's Budget speech.

The Treasury has now issued proposals to the EC to raise the limit "significantly".

Although the allowances do not apply to tobacco, wine, perfume or spirits, more people have been seen purchasing bargain jewellery now anyway.

Destinations popular among holiday shoppers are the US, the Middle East and the Far East, with places like Dubai famous for its designer jewellery.

"The government supports the freedom to shop across international borders and is against excessive restrictions being applied to travellers who bring goods into the country for their own use," the Treasury said.

The proposed increase needs to win unanimous approval from EU member states before it can be implemented.

 

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