Apple Japan hit with $98 million in additional taxes
December 27, 2022 By Raulf Hernes
(Image Credit Google)
Tokyo authorities have levied an additional tax of $98 million against Apple Japan for incorrectly omitting tourists and resellers from a consumption tax.
According to Nikkei, authorities discovered large purchases of iPhones and other devices at certain Apple stores throughout the country. At least one transaction involved an individual purchasing hundreds of iPhones all at once, implying that Apple did not tax a potential reseller.
For visitors residing less than six months, Japan offers tax-free shopping, allowing them to purchase specific goods without needing to pay the country's 10% consumption tax. The exemption, however, does not apply to purchases made for resale.
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In June, Apple voluntarily discontinued tax-free shopping. According to reports, Apple Japan has already filed an amended tax return.
Apple is one of the many companies that must pay back taxes. In the fiscal year ending in June, tax authorities in Japan discovered approximately 24,000 transactions that had to be subject to the consumption tax. The country imposed 86.9 billion yen in taxes and penalties, an 11% increase from the previous year.
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple Greg Joswiak, SVP of Marketing, visited various developers in Japan in December, including Konami and Sony, one of the company's suppliers. Cook also met with Japan's Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida.
It's amazing to be back in a country that's so close to Apple's heart," he tweeted. "Thank you for the warm welcome, @kishida230. We are excited to continue to expand and invest throughout Japan."