SINGAPORE – A shocking case of luxury goods evasion has come to light as 27-year-old Cloey Tan Wan Qi has been slapped with an enormous $18,000 fine after cleverly dodging goods and services tax (GST) at Changi Airport.

To add insult to injury, Tan took to social media to share her secret tips, encouraging others to follow in her illegal footsteps.

Court Proceedings and Plea

On March 27, Tan pleaded guilty under the Customs Act, with District Judge Eddy Tham denouncing her actions as not only a transgression of the law but also an act of bold defiance by publicizing her illegal methods.

Details of the Case

The court proceedings revealed that in May 2024, Tan traveled with her family and boyfriend through Europe, purchasing over $23,000 worth of luxury items, including five high-end bags from renowned brands such as Christian Dior, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.

She also acquired two luxury wallets, a pair of Michael Kors shoes, and an engagement ring from famed jeweler House of Gassan.

Despite knowing she was obligated to declare these goods and pay GST upon her return, Tan chose the path of deceit. Upon landing in Singapore on May 10, she bypassed customs inspection entirely, ignoring the duty that amounted to over $2,200.

Social Media Exposure and Arrest

Shortly after, on the social media platform Lemon8, Tan decided to flaunt her exploits.

With posts titled "Six tips on how to smuggle luxury goods and avoid detection by Customs," she glamorized her illegal actions, inadvertently drawing the attention of authorities who arrested her in January 2025.

Prosecution and Sentencing

During the court hearing, the prosecution argued for a fine of $16,000 to $17,000, emphasizing Tan's blatant disregard for the law and her lack of remorse in the initial stages.

However, they acknowledged her later contrition, as she made full restitution and pled guilty.

Apology and Reflection

Expressing sorrow for her actions, Tan apologized in court, saying, “I have not only disappointed myself but my parents too, who have placed a lot of hope on their only child.”

She admitted that her actions had caused significant distress to her family, particularly her parents.

Broader Context of Tax Evasion in Singapore

In a broader context, this incident highlights a growing trend in Singapore.

In November 2024, The Straits Times reported shocking statistics showing that over 13,000 travellers had faced fines for tax evasion across air, land, and sea checkpoints since January. The cumulative fines exceeded $3.4 million, and the undeclared items included luxury bags and toys.

Legal Ramifications

Under the Customs Act, offenders can face penalties of up to 20 times the amount of duty and GST evaded, in addition to possible imprisonment for up to two years.

It appears Tan's case is just one of many cases where individuals underestimate the power of the law and the scrutiny that comes with flaunting illegal behavior online.

Conclusion

Stay vigilant, as the authorities are cracking down on tax evasion like never before! Will this serve as a wake-up call for others considering similar actions?