- The PwC Pulse 6 – Middle East findings of the Global Consumer Insights Survey 2023 show a new generation of price-conscious shoppers who use research and technology to make purchase decisions.
- Shopping patterns in the Middle East are changing, with a shift from in-store visits to a mix of e-commerce and physical stores. This change brings important VAT and customs considerations. The report evaluates the implications of VAT and customs against these evolving trends, including physical stores vs online platforms, self-checkouts and digital payment options, direct purchases from brand websites, subscriptions and e-commerce growth, preference for local produce, returns, and hands-on immersive and advanced technologies.
- The report highlights the VAT and customs dynamics for in-store and online shopping, emphasizing the need for businesses to adapt their billing systems for VAT changes and be aware of customs exemptions for goods shipped from abroad.
- It also addresses the complexities of VAT for cross-border online sales and the importance of understanding cross-border customs rules.
- The report also notes the pressure on customs authorities due to the growing volume of e-commerce shipments and the need to balance trade facilitation and controls.
Source PwC
