Hatice Ozcan
Dec 6, 2024
Kazakhstan Extends VAT Refund Pilot for Tourists to 2025
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Finance has announced plans to extend its VAT refund pilot project for foreign tourists until the end of 2025. This initiative, which enables foreigners to claim back VAT on goods exported from Kazakhstan, aims to enhance tourism and stimulate business activity.
Proposed Extension Details
The Committee of State Revenues has drafted amendments to the existing VAT refund rules, with the proposal currently open for public consultation. Interested parties can share feedback on the Open Legal Acts portal until December 18, 2024.
Initially launched on August 15, 2019, the project was set to conclude on December 31, 2024. The proposed extension to December 31, 2025, will allow further evaluation of its impact on both tourism and business turnover.
Supporting Tourism Growth
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports backs the extension, emphasizing its role in promoting Kazakhstan as a tourist destination. By simplifying tax refunds for foreign visitors, the project aims to attract more travelers and boost the local economy.
Implementation Timeline
If approved, the updated rules will take effect ten days after their first official publication. They will retroactively apply to all transactions since the project's inception in 2019 and remain valid until the end of 2025.