Singapore Secures Top Spot as Most Affordable Tourist Shopping Destination in Asia Pacific

Singapore has been nominated the most affordable tourist shopping destination in the Asia Pacific region. Based on the results from a comparative study by Euromonitor International on retail pricing in eight leading shopping destinations in the Asia Pacific region.

The study, carried out in October 2004, aimed to determine how Singapore fared within a group of eight leading Asia Pacific shopping destinations in retail pricing for five product groups. Apart from Singapore, the other cities included in the study were Sydney, Bangkok, Dubai, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai and Tokyo.

“A common misconception is that Singapore is more expensive than other Asian shopping destinations,” said Mr Kevin Leong, Regional Director Oceania, Singapore Tourism Board.

“This survey affirms Singapore’s all-round competitiveness as a shopping hub offering excellent prices from clothes through to knick-knacks and gadgets,” added Mr Leong.

Beyond pricing, Singapore also offers high quality assurance, excellent after-sales service, diverse and authentic products and brands, a safe shopping environment, as well as a comfortable and convenient transportation system.

“This result is also great news for bargain hunters as we get ready to kick-start our annual eight-week long shopping extravaganza – The Great Singapore Sale (27 May – 24 July),” said Mr Leong.

In the survey, the five product groups examined comprised of apparel; electronics and electrical goods; cosmetics, perfumes and toiletries; watches and jewellery; and handbags, wallets and other leather goods. Fifty popular international brands were selected for the study and they include household names like Sony, Apple, Levi’s, Swatch, Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Gucci. These fifty products were selected based on their appeal to shoppers, classic value, international appeal, and availability in at least six of the eight cities surveyed.

The comparisons in the study were based on three price categories: price inclusive of value-added tax (VAT); price with VAT excluded; and effective prices. Effective prices reflect the retail list prices after taking into account, where applicable, the VAT rebates offered by the cities.

Singapore ranked first in two of the three price categories – the VAT-excluded and effective price. Hong Kong came in second while Bangkok came in third in both categories. For the VAT-included category, Singapore ranked second after Hong Kong while Kuala Lumpur ranked third.

For all shop-a-holics keen to take advantage of Singapore’s great pricing, why not visit during the Great Singapore Sale (GSS). Entering its 12th year, the sale offers bargain hunters up to 70% discount on items ranging from fashion accessories, apparel and jewellery to electronics and souvenirs.

The sale takes places throughout the city and includes a number of promotions and give-aways to make sure travellers make the most of their shopping time. To ensure you grab a bargain during this year’s GSS, Qantas Holiday has developed a fantastic package starting from $839* ex Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane. The package includes return economy airfares flying Qantas, 4 nights accommodation at the Copthorne Orchid Hotel, late check out, a City Tour, Return hotel transfers and Free hotel shuttle to Orchard Road. To book call 13 14 15 or visit www.qantas.com/holidays

For further information about Singapore’s must-visit shopping spots log onto www.visitsingapore.com or contact the Singapore Tourism Board on (02) 9290 2888. For more information on The Great Singapore Sale, log onto www.greatsingaporesale.com.sg

*Surcharges, fees and taxes are correct as at April 20, 2005 but may fluctuate. An additional 1% Credit Card Service Fee will be applied to the dollar amount paid by credit or charge card. Valid for travel until 30 June 2005. Sale ends 31 May 2005. Travel is from Sydney/Melbourne/ Adelaide/ Brisbane with Qantas/British Airways and prices are per person twin share but do not include any charges or taxes payable directly to third parties. Limited Availability. Cancellation fees apply. Other conditions apply.