Posted by Rick Denney on July 09, 2003 at 15:02:50:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Mr. Tuba's Prices posted by Wes on July 09, 2003 at 14:42:35:
VAT = Value Added Tax. This is what many countries, including those in the EU, charge their own citizens instead of the taxes that are charged in the U.S. The taxes are 16% and do not apply to non-residents. When you pay it, you can submit a form to the appropriate authorities and get a refund.
Getting the VAT refunded is one thing. Getting it past the customs officials at the Russian border might be something else entirely, though you no doubt know much more about that than most of us would. If they think you are importing it, you'll have to pay those import duties just as if you'd bought it in Russia, I expect.
Rick "who has to declare camera and computer equipment when traveling outside the U.S. to avoid paying customs fees on the return" Denney