Imported fruits hit with 5% tax under new SST rules

KUALA LUMPUR: A 5% sales tax will be imposed on imported fruits under the expanded sales and service tax (SST) regime that takes effect July 1.

Locally grown fruits, however, are exempted from any sales tax.

This means strawberries originating from Cameron Highlands will not be taxed, while those imported from abroad will see a 5% sales tax.

A Finance Ministry spokesperson also told reporters that selected foods imported, such as rice, wheat, sugar, salt, and meat, are exempt because they are considered basic essentials.

Locally manufactured and imported palm oil for cooking oil is also exempted.

“Under the expanded SST, a 5% sales tax is levied on goods manufactured locally and on imports,” said the spokesperson.