Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Since Hong Kong is a duty-free port with no sales tax, some goods are cheaper here than
in their country of manufacture. On photographic equipment, electronic goods and watches,
you avoid the luxury tax payable in your home country. Speciality goods and souvenirs, of-
ten handmade, come from Hong Kong and elsewhere in China. Garments custom-made by
skillful Hong Kong tailors are still much in demand and cost less than elsewhere for com-
parable items. There are some exceptions to Hong Kong's duty-free regime, however - you
will pay tax on tobacco and all alcohol except wine.
Stores do not open until 10am or later, but conversely stay open until 10pm or later. Most
shops are open seven days a week. Stores in Central are an exception; they generally close
at 7pm and on Sunday. The only holiday on which all commerce comes to a halt is the
Chinese New Year in January or February.
Most stores have fixed prices, but it never hurts to ask for a discount or the 'best price',
especially if you buy several items in a smaller shop or stall. Compare prices before you
buy. Always ask to see the manufacturer's guarantee when purchasing cameras, watches,
audio-visual and electronic equipment and check the box as it is packed. Note that when
haggling, the merchant assumes you are prepared to pay cash. If, after making a deal, you
try to pay with a credit card, they may then boost the price.
Shipping
. Many stores will pack and ship purchases. Ask if automatic free insurance is
provided. If the goods are very valuable or fragile, it is a good idea to buy an all-risk insur-
ance for the shipment.
