Guide for Individuals and Dealers (as of 13 April 2025)
Country |
Currency |
GST/VAT on Investment Gold |
For Gold Dealers / Pawn Shops |
Notes |
Australia |
AUD ($) |
0% GST (bullion ≥99.5%) |
Dealers charge 0% GST on investment-grade gold; 10% on non-investment gold (e.g. jewelry). |
Second-hand goods (jewelry) may be treated under margin scheme. |
United States |
USD ($) |
Varies by state |
Dealers follow state rules; many allow exemptions for investment gold. |
States like Texas, Florida exempt bullion; others do not. |
European Union |
EUR (€) |
0% VAT |
Dealers do not charge VAT on bullion; may charge on jewelry. |
Applies in most EU nations (e.g. Germany, France, Spain). |
United Kingdom |
GBP (£) |
0% VAT on bullion |
Dealers don't charge VAT on gold bars/coins, but 20% VAT on jewelry. |
Second-hand margin scheme can apply. |
Japan |
JPY (¥) |
10% Consumption Tax |
Dealers must charge 10% on all gold, even bullion. |
No tax exemption on investment-grade bullion. |
China |
CNY (¥) |
13% VAT |
Dealers must charge full VAT, even on bullion. |
One of the highest gold VAT rates globally. |
India |
INR (₹) |
3% GST on gold + 5% on making charges |
Dealers charge 3% GST + 5% on making; second-hand gold is also taxed. |
Margin scheme only applies under specific conditions. |
Canada |
CAD ($) |
0% GST/HST on bullion |
Dealers don't charge tax on gold ≥99.5%; taxed if below. |
Jewelry sales attract full GST/HST. |
Switzerland |
CHF (₣) |
0% VAT |
Dealers don't charge VAT on bullion; VAT applies on jewelry. |
Commonly used for gold trading due to favorable tax status. |
New Zealand |
NZD ($) |
15% GST on all gold |
Dealers must charge 15% GST on all sales, including bullion. |
No exemption for investment-grade gold. |
Disclaimer: This table is not personalised tax or legal advice. Tax laws may change, vary by jurisdiction, or not apply to your specific situation. Always consult a qualified tax advisor or your local tax authority. This guide was created on 13 April 2025 and is intended for general reference only.