Shoppers to get more ‘bang’ for their buck Good news for tourists shopping in Singapore – up to 30 September 2006, those claiming their Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund will have the option of redeeming the amount in the form of shopping vouchers under a pilot programme launched by Global Refund, a leading provider of financial services, and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Under the Downtown Shopping Voucher Programme, tourists can redeem their shopping vouchers at 39 participating stores along Orchard Road, to offset further purchases made at these retailers. As an added bonus, the shopping vouchers will allow tourists to claim an additional 10 per cent in their GST refund amount. Mr Rodney Teo, Managing Director of Global Refund, said: ‘The introduction of this scheme is to encourage tourist shoppers to spend more in Singapore. With the Downtown Shopping Vouchers, tourists can use them like cash to shop in Orchard Road. Once they do, participating merchants can look forward to increased sales through improved tourist traffic as the Downtown Shopping Voucher option encourages new or repeat purchases.’ The pilot programme was timed to coincide with the Great Singapore Sale, as well as the upcoming International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank meeting in September where 16,000 international delegates and visitors are expected to arrive in Singapore. Participating retailers are also excited about the initiative. Richard Hung, Managing Director of Richard Hung Jewellers said: ‘We foresee that tourist shoppers will appreciate the additional option of claiming their GST refund as they will be rewarded with extra value from the voucher.’ Mr Kevin Koh, Marketing Manager of Timberland agreed: ‘On a macro and micro sale, we see the programme bringing incremental sales benefits for both the economy and retailers like us.’  The Downtown Shopping Voucher Programme is an extension of Global Refund’s tax-refund services where visitors can claim their GST Refund in the form of Airport Shopping Vouchers, cash, bank cheque or by direct credit to their credit card at the airport. Alternatively, visitors may also claim their refund solely in the form of instant cash at four locations downtown. ‘The introduction of the Downtown Shopping Voucher Programme is in line with the STB's continual efforts to offer more value-added initiatives which will enhance our visitors’ experience. ‘With the Downtown Shopping Voucher Programme, tourists will be rewarded with more value when they shop more,’ said Dr Chan Tat Hon, Assistant Chief Executive of Leisure at the STB.