Goods and Person Exempted from Sales Tax
In today’s dynamic and ever-evolving business landscape, understanding the intricacies of goods and person exempted from sales tax is paramount for both individuals and manufacturers. Malaysia’s Sales Tax Exemption Guidelines offer a comprehensive framework that grants relief to specific entities on imported goods and locally manufactured products.
To shed light on this pivotal subject, we delve into the various categories of individuals and manufacturers eligible for these exemptions, as defined by Schedules A, B, and C. This article will provide a detailed overview of the key beneficiaries of these exemptions, ensuring clarity and compliance in the realm of sales tax regulations. Find out more tax related information from RS36 Solutions.
Goods Exempted from Sales Tax

In compliance with sales tax regulations, a variety of goods are eligible for exemption from sales tax. The following goods fall under this category:
Live animals: This includes items such as fish, meat, seafood, milk, eggs, vegetables, fruits, and bread.
Unprocessed food: Unprocessed food items are also exempt.
Vegetables: All vegetable products are exempt from sales tax.
Medicines: Pharmaceutical products like medical cream, medicine, cough syrup, bandages, medicaments containing multivitamins, and minerals are exempt.
Machinery: Certain machinery, including bicycles and specific parts and accessories, are exempt from sales tax.
Chemicals: Naturally occurring mineral substances and chemicals enjoy exemption from sales tax.
Fertilizers (animal origin or chemical) and insecticides: These agricultural products are exempt.
Articles of goldsmiths: Items such as gold or platinum jewelry, silver tableware, and similar products are not subject to sales tax.
Books, magazines, newspapers, journals, and periodicals: Printed materials are also exempt from sales tax.
Please note that a detailed list of goods that do not fall under this exemption can be found in the Proposed Sales Tax (Goods Exempted From Sales Tax) Order, which may be subject to varying sales tax rates ranging from 5% to 10%.
Persons Exempted from Sales Tax

In accordance with Malaysia’s Sales Tax Exemption Guidelines, certain individuals and manufacturers are granted exemptions from paying sales tax, both on imported items and locally manufactured goods.
The following persons are exempted from Sales Tax
Schedule A:
- Yang di Pertuan Agong
- Rulers of States
- Federal and State Government Departments
- Local Authorities
- Inland Clearance Depots
- Duty-Free Shops
- Public Higher Education Institutions
- And more.
Schedule B:
- Manufacturers of specific non-taxable goods
- Tax exemption on the acquisition of raw materials, components, packaging materials, and manufacturing aids, to be used exclusively and directly in manufacturing activities.
Schedule C:
- Registered manufacturers of taxable goods
- Tax exemption on acquiring raw materials, components, packaging materials, and manufacturing aids, to be used exclusively and directly in the production of taxable goods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Malaysia’s Sales Tax Exemption Guidelines play a pivotal role in facilitating economic activities while alleviating the financial burden on certain entities. The provisions outlined in Schedules A, B, and C encompass a wide spectrum of beneficiaries, ranging from government institutions and public higher education establishments to manufacturers involved in producing non-taxable or taxable goods. This nuanced system underscores the nation’s commitment to supporting various sectors of its economy. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of these exemptions, individuals and manufacturers can navigate the complexities of sales tax with greater confidence, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and competitive business environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is sales tax, and how is it different from value-added tax (VAT)?
Sales tax is typically applied only at the final point of sale to the end consumer, while VAT is imposed at multiple stages of production and distribution.
Who is responsible for collecting and remitting sales tax?
Businesses that sell taxable goods or services are generally responsible for collecting and remitting sales tax to the government.
Are all goods and services subject to sales tax?
No, certain items, such as groceries and prescription medications, may be exempt from sales tax.
What is the sales tax rate in [Your State/Country]?
The sales tax rate varies by location and can be found on the website of your state or country’s revenue department.
Is there a threshold for businesses to register for sales tax?
Many jurisdictions have a sales threshold that triggers the requirement for businesses to register for sales tax.
Do online businesses need to collect sales tax?
Yes, online businesses are often required to collect sales tax from customers in states or countries where they have a significant economic presence.
Can I get a sales tax refund if I am not a resident of [Your State/Country]?
Non-residents may be eligible for sales tax refunds under specific circumstances, such as making large purchases while visiting.
What happens if a business fails to collect or remit sales tax properly?
Businesses that do not comply with sales tax regulations may face penalties, fines, or legal actions.
Are sales tax rules the same for all states or countries?
No, sales tax rules can vary significantly from one state or country to another, including tax rates, exemptions, and reporting requirements.
Is sales tax deductible on my income tax return?
In some cases, sales tax may be deductible on your income tax return, but it depends on your specific circumstances and location.