“I’m Tired of Arguing”: South Africans React to Shein’s New 15% VAT Starting 1 September

• South Africa is not happy with Shein's sudden 15% VAT implementation after its last 20% comprehensive tax that baffled customers a while back 
• The new VAT will apply to items below R500 from the first day of September 
• The news caused major chest pains and confused many of their customers who had already placed their orders 

The popular online retailer Shein has announced a new VAT for orders under R500, set to take effect from 1 September 2024.

Social media users were baffled by the news, especially because Shein implemented the 20% comprehensive tax not so long ago.

SA gets chest pains after Shein's 15% VAT from September 1

Shein, the popular online store, has a massive market in Cape Town. In early August, the brand launched their first pop-up store in Sandton, where many fans showed up.

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Although they have a strong clientele in South Africa, Mzansi was pained to learn about the brand's new update. Shen has added VAT of 15% to the existing 20% comprehensive tax.

The new information baffled customers and caused major anxiety among virtual shoppers. A lady on TikTok, Lisa, shared the post on TikTok with the caption:

"Haibo Shein?"

Watch the video below:

Mzansi reacts to Shein's new 15% VAT implementation

Social media users were baffled by Shein's new VAT increase that reads:

"From September 1, 2024, there will be a new 25% VAT on orders declaration value below 500 ZAR, in addition to the existing 20% comprehensive tax. Please note you are responsible for paying the tariff."

Mzansi commented:

@Modiegi Moolly said:

"My parcel is currently at that exact stage and I need my parcel before Friday."

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@Thuto M prayed to get her parcel on time:

"Ordered on Saturday, paid customs today. Hoping for a miracle so that it’s here by Friday."

@Marla Grayson shared her frustrations:

"Is there a way to make sure your package gets assigned to IMILE? I’m tired of arguing with Buffalo."

@Orategile Jacqueline shared her scenario:

"I order on Friday the 23 August and it was R1 600. I paid R139. I am expecting it tomorrow."

@Whizzy_amore wondered why Shein made the decision:

"What has changed and why are things no longer easy?"

What you need to know about Shein

SHEIN is a global fashion and lifestyle e-retailer focused on democratising fashion. Utilising on-demand manufacturing and a flexible supply chain, Shein connects suppliers and reduces inventory waste to offer a broad selection of budget-friendly products. Operating from offices worldwide, they deliver to customers in over 150 countries.

Founded by Chris Xu in China in 2008, Shein started as an order fulfilment business before evolving into a clothing retailer with products sourced from Guangzhou's wholesale markets. Known for its blend of affordability and style, Shein has grown to ship to over 220 countries and independent regions worldwide.

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Man offers tips to pay less on Temu and Shein orders coming to SA

Briefly News also reported that the Mzansi tax hikes for Temu and Shein clothing orders coming to South Africa have them dizzy. A man on TikTok, Brenden Roberts, has cleared the confusion about the tax hikes for clothing orders.

Netizens are still boggled by the quickening of tax rates that were implemented from 1 July.

Source: Briefly News