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Smotrich Signs Order Raising VAT-Free Personal Import Limit to $150

Officials say the change will widen consumer options, pressuring local retailers on prices.

Overview

  • The directive takes legal effect overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday once published in the official registry.
  • The higher cap applies to personal, non-commercial imports and replaces the previous $75 threshold.
  • Consumers are expected to save by consolidating more items into single shipments without triggering VAT.
  • Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich framed the move as part of efforts to cut living costs and challenge market monopolies.
  • Small business owners protested the decision, and Israeli retailers are reported to be weighing a Supreme Court petition.