Vietnam Duty-Free Guide: What to Buy and Where to Shop

Introduction

If you’re transiting through or staying in Vietnam for a short period, make the most of your duty-free shopping with this comprehensive guide covering:

• What: Recommended Duty-Free Products
  Discover top picks like luxury cosmetics, Vietnamese coffee sets, silk scarves, local spices, and traditional liquor.
• Where: Best Shopping Spots
  Learn how to shop efficiently at 24-hour duty-free stores at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.
• Duty-Free Procedures & VAT Refund Details
  Steps for VAT refunds include:
  • At purchase: Request a VAT refund receipt
  • Before departure: Submit your application at the VAT refund counter
  • After verification: Receive your refund in cash or via bank transfer

For a complete list of duty-free items and the latest regulations, visit Vietnam Customs – Duty-Free Information.

Let’s dive into the details of “What” and “Where” for a seamless shopping experience.

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① What: Recommended Duty-Free Products in Vietnam

1. Vietnamese Coffee Set

Vietnamese coffee is known for its rich taste and unique aroma.

• Features: Traditionally brewed using a “Ca Phe Phin” filter and served with sweetened condensed milk.
• Why buy?: A drip coffee set allows you to recreate the authentic taste at home.

2. Silk Scarves & Shawls

Vietnamese silk is renowned for its smooth texture and high quality.

• Features: Handmade in traditional craft villages near Hanoi, offering vibrant colors and elegant designs.
• Why buy?: A fashionable and authentic souvenir.

3. Local Spices & Seasoning Sets

Enjoy the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine at home.

• Features: Includes fish sauce (Nuoc Mam), lemongrass, and lime leaves.
• Why buy?: Perfect for cooking enthusiasts who love authentic flavors.

4. Dried Fruit Mix

A healthy and tasty souvenir featuring Vietnam’s tropical fruits.

• Features: Mango, banana, papaya, dragon fruit, and more.
• Why buy?: A nutritious and convenient snack.

5. Traditional Vietnamese Liquor

Vietnam offers a variety of unique alcoholic beverages.

• Son Tinh: Herbal liqueur with rich flavors
• Rượu Gạo: Traditional rice wine with a mild sweetness
• Dalat Wine: Fruity and light-bodied wine from the highlands

② Where: Best Duty-Free Shopping Spots in Vietnam

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)

• Location: International Terminal (T2), 3rd floor, near major gates
• Hours: Open 24/7 (individual store hours may vary)
• Why shop here?: Wide range of cosmetics, fashion, and local handicrafts
• Official website

Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)

• Location: International Terminal (T2), 1st floor (arrival area), 3rd floor (departure area)
• Hours: Open 24/7 (check specific store hours in advance)
• Why shop here?: Specializes in traditional handicrafts, local spices, and food products
• Official website

③ Duty-Free Procedures & VAT Refund Guide

Vietnam offers VAT refunds for eligible travelers.

Eligibility for VAT Refund

• Minimum Purchase: 2,000,000 VND (~90 USD) per store per day
• Purchase Date: Within 60 days before departure

VAT Refund Process

1. At Purchase: Request a VAT refund receipt
2. Before Departure: Submit your application at the airport VAT refund counter
3. After Verification: Receive your refund in cash or via bank transfer

For complete details, visit Vietnam Customs – Duty-Free Information.

Refund Calculation Example

Refunds amount to 85% of the VAT paid, with a 15% processing fee deducted.

Example Calculation:

For a 3,000,000 VND purchase with an 8% VAT rate:

1. VAT Calculation
   • 3,000,000 VND × 8% = 240,000 VND (VAT paid)
2. Refund Amount
   • 240,000 VND × 85% = 204,000 VND (refund received)

As of mid-2025, Vietnam has reduced VAT from 10% to 8% for many goods.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s airport duty-free stores offer a convenient and rewarding shopping experience, even during short transits.

• What: Premium Vietnamese coffee, silk scarves, traditional liquor, local spices, and more
• Where: 24/7 duty-free shopping at Ho Chi Minh’s Tan Son Nhat Airport and Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport
• Bonus: Take advantage of VAT refunds to maximize your savings

Plan ahead and make the most of your shopping experience in Vietnam!

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