Philippines: All Imported Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Now VAT Free

The Philippine Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on November 10, 2021 issued Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 112-2021, clarifying that all imported unprocessed fruits and vegetables are exempt from the 12 percent value-added tax. The VAT exemption includes fruits and vegetables that more recently gained market access, such as fresh blueberries. The circular also clarifies that BIR no longer requires the issuance of an Authority to Release Imported Goods prior to release from the custody of the Bureau of Customs.