GST scheme records £4.6m of spending since 2025

Visitors using a digitised goods and services tax (GST) refund scheme have spent £4.6m since 2025, a report has found.

The future-fit retail roadmap 2025 delivery report said, since July last year, more than 500 forms were issued through the digitalised scheme which allowed visitors to reclaim 5% back on purchases totalling more than £100. About 5% of the £4.6m has been reclaimed in refunds.

The government said the aim of its report was to grow and revitalise Jersey's retail sector, building on the work of its interim retail strategy since 2021.

The digital scheme also saw the number of retailers registered grow from four, who previously used the paper system, to 15.

People leaving can claim back their funds at kiosks in the airport and harbour. Those visiting cannot claim GST back if they leave by private boat or aircraft and if the items are from a retailer who isn't registered on the scheme.

Deputy Kirsten Morel, minister for sustainable economic development, said retail was "essential to enriching our social and cultural fabric".

"By working together with the many stakeholders and seeking to always improve, the retail sector is cementing its vital role in our economy and society," he said.

He added: "Updated figures from 2024 indicate that the economic contribution of retail grew by 3% in real terms to £416m and, with over 800 retail business in Jersey, retail remained the third largest private sector employer, proving just how important it is to Jersey."

Correction 20 April: This article's headline and introduction originally said that the GST scheme had "generated £4.6m". This has been amended to make clear that this figure referred to visitor spending, of which 5% was reclaimed by the consumers as refunds. We have also removed the word "generated" to avoid any suggestion that consumer spend was directly because of the scheme.

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