Singapore Tax Refund Guide – Claim GST Back as a Tourist
If you're planning a trip to Singapore and love shopping as much as I do, then listen up — because this travel tip will seriously help you stretch your Ringgit! 💸 As a Malaysian traveler, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that Singapore offers tax refunds (GST refunds) for tourists on a wide range of purchases.
From Orchard Road’s fashion boutiques to skincare at Changi Airport, you can claim back part of the 9% GST (Goods and Services Tax) on your spending — and yes, it’s easier than you might think! 😍🛍️
Whether you’re visiting Singapore for a weekend getaway, family trip, or quick shopping run, knowing how the Singapore Tourist Refund Scheme works can help you save more while enjoying the Lion City. 🧴👟🎧
✨ Ready to shop smart in Singapore?
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In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how Singapore’s tax refund system works, how much you can get back, who’s eligible, and my own step-by-step experience. 💼✈️💳
🧐 What is a Singapore Tax Refund?
When you shop in Singapore, you pay a Goods and Services Tax (GST) — which is 9% as of 2024. But here’s the best part: as a non-resident tourist, you can get a refund on GST for eligible purchases made at participating stores under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS). 🙌
It’s like a mini cashback reward just for shopping across the Causeway 😄🛒
💰 How Much is GST in Singapore?
GST is currently 9% on most goods. If you’re shopping for luxury items, electronics, or branded skincare, that can add up quickly. Good news is, you can get most of that refunded! 💳💸
🔙 How Much Can I Get Back?
After administrative fees, you can usually expect a refund of around 7%–8%. For example, I spent about SGD 800 (~RM2,800) and got back around SGD 60 (~RM210) — which I happily spent on snacks at Changi Airport! 😆🍫
👤 Am I Eligible for a Tax Refund?
source from https://mytour.vn/
Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
Nationality | Non-Singaporeans (Malaysians ✅) |
Stay Duration | Less than 365 days in Singapore |
Minimum Spend | SGD 100 at a single participating retailer |
Departure | Must leave Singapore via Changi Airport or Seletar Airport |
Goods Status | Items must be unused and carried out with you (hand-carry preferred) |
🛍️ How Do Tax Refunds Work in Singapore?
Shopping in Singapore is easy, and claiming your GST back is even easier if you follow these steps. Look for “Tax-Free Shopping” or TRS logos at stores.
You can claim your tax back:
- 💵 At the airport via self-help kiosks or manual counters
- 📲 Or use the eTRS system (linked to your passport and purchases)
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Ring in the Chinese New Year with joy, laughter and exciting festivities at Universal Studios Singapore, where the Chinese New Year Festival of Fun brings bountiful fun and fortune for the whole family.
This festive season, the park comes alive with vibrant celebrations, auspicious character appearances and lively shows. Guests can capture unforgettable moments with their favourite characters, enjoy energetic performances, and soak in the cheerful Chinese New Year atmosphere throughout the park.
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Dive into Chinese New Year with a Year of the Horse celebration inspired by seahorses—the ocean’s “horses.”
Discover fun facts and festive well-wishes around the oceanarium, catch an underwater dive presentation featuring mythical dragons, and snap a photo with our Manta Ray mascot during special appearances. Wind down your evening with cultural music performances by local ensembles.
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Canter into the Year of the Horse with this festive showcase of Chinese culture featuring iconic blooms, lantern horses and classical Chinese architecture inspired by the serene beauty of China’s iconic Jiangnan Gardens. Wander through moon gates and pavilions as eight majestic lantern horses gambol among the revered “Four Gentlemen” of Chinese art, alongside other vibrant seasonal blooms. Strike the Blooming Drum of Spring for good fortune and welcome the Year of the Horse in style!
💸 Types of Tax Refunds in Singapore
source from https://kaizenaire.com/
1. eTRS (Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme)
Most big stores (like Uniqlo, Sephora, Apple, etc.) offer this. You just:
- Shop and provide your passport
- The store links your purchase to eTRS digitally — no paper form needed!
2. GST Refund at the Airport
Before departure at Changi or Seletar Airport:
- Use the eTRS kiosk before check-in
- Scan your passport and receipts
- If required, present goods for inspection
- Choose your refund method: credit card, Alipay, WeChat Pay, or cash (SGD)
💡 Tip: For high-value items like electronics, keep them in your hand-carry luggage for possible checks.
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📊 Singapore Tax Refund Summary Table
Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
GST Rate | 9% |
Refund Amount | ~7%–8% after fees |
Minimum Spend | SGD 100 per store |
Refund Location | Changi / Seletar Airport only |
Refund Methods | Cash (SGD), Credit Card, Alipay, WeChat Pay |
Eligible Stores | Stores using the eTRS system (ask cashier!) |
🧭 How Do I Get a Tax Refund in Singapore?
✅ Step 1: Shop at eTRS-Participating Stores
Look for the “Tax Free” or eTRS logo, or just ask the staff.
✅ Step 2: Provide Your Passport
At checkout, show your Malaysian passport — the system will link your details.
✅ Step 3: Keep Receipts & Carry Items
Keep receipts (just in case), and bring high-value goods in hand-carry bags.
✅ Step 4: Go to the Airport Early
Arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure — refunds take time if there’s a queue.
✅ Step 5: Use eTRS Kiosk or Counter
- Scan your passport or credit card
- Review purchases, and confirm refund
- If needed, go for customs inspection
- Choose your refund method and collect your cash 💵
Cheap Hotels in Singapore
5 star
Great1031 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|2.11km dari pusat bandar
Extremely satisfied! The environment is great, and the hygiene is impeccable. The service is also excellent, and the views are beautiful. It's super convenient as the subway station is right outside, and there's a bus stop too. I especially love the hotel's ambiance. The room even has a pot and an induction cooker, which is really handy for cooking your own meals.DariDKK 1,250
Great1942 Ulasan
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km dari pusat bandar
Book for Wife Birthday Celebration and given a complimentary muffin. Excellent front desk service staffs (Ladies sorry I didn’t get your names). Recommended to top up a bit for lounge access including afternoon tea and evening drinks with food. Well worth it. Breakfast was excellent with plenty of choices. Bed was super comfortable to sleep on. Overall highly recommended. Complimentary parking provided as well.DariDKK 787
Amazing2035 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|0.99km dari pusat bandar
Very nice hotel but not worth this high price tag ! You can get luxury hotels at half the price in SingaporeDariDKK 3,998
Great1812 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|1.78km dari pusat bandar
My recent stay at the Carlton Hotel Singapore completely redefined my expectations for convenient downtown accommodation. The location, facilities, and service were all top-notch, making for a refreshing and comfortable overall experience.
The hotel's location is truly unbeatable! It's right in the Bugis/Beach Road area, just a few minutes' walk from Bugis MRT station. Exploring places like Kampong Glam, the colorful murals of Haji Lane, or commuting to Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands is incredibly convenient. Downstairs, there are convenience stores and a variety of restaurants, offering everything from local snacks to international cuisine, so you'll never go hungry, even late at night.
While the room wasn't huge, it was well-designed with plenty of natural light. The bedding was soft, ensuring a good night's sleep, and the bathroom had stable water pressure with a full set of essentials. It felt clean and tidy. The outdoor pool was a pleasant surprise; a dip in the evening, with the open views and a gentle breeze, was perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The gym is open 24 hours with sufficient equipment, so maintaining a workout routine is no problem at all.
Service was consistently excellent. Check-in at the front desk was quick, and any requests were handled promptly. They even offered thoughtful suggestions for local attractions. The breakfast buffet offered a wide selection, including both local flavors and Western dishes, and everything tasted great – a perfect way to start the day feeling energized.
As an established hotel in the city center, it doesn't boast extravagant decorations, but it excels in practicality and comfort. Whether for a short shopping trip or a business visit, it's an extremely cost-effective and reliable choice. I'll definitely choose to stay here again on my next trip to Singapore!DariDKK 1,239
Very Good1550 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|1.34km dari pusat bandar
1. Early check-in and late check-out are available, charged hourly, though I don't recall the exact rates. The service was polite, but they don't offer luggage delivery to your room.
2. The location is indeed excellent. It's walking distance to the police station attraction, and taxis to various places cost around S$11-15, making it great for quick sightseers.
3. Breakfast was quite mediocre, like airplane food brought to the ground, and it was very crowded. You might as well skip it and try local street food; that experience is much better.
The hotel pool is glass, which is beautiful, and I highly recommend trying it out – it's a bit like the one at the St. Regis.
[Soundproofing] It's pretty poor; light sleepers will hear noise from outside the door.
[Musty Smell] The rooms had a significant musty odor. If this bothers you, don't book here. I'd consider it an unpleasant smell.
The upside is that for Singapore, it's not expensive, just a little over a thousand (SGD/CNY), so what more can you ask for?DariDKK 1,117
Great839 Ulasan
Chinatown Singapore|0.94km dari pusat bandar
The location is super convenient. It's just a 3-minute walk to bus stops for routes 80 and 145, which get you to VivoCity in 10 minutes. These buses also provide easy and quick access to popular attractions like Clarke Quay, the National Gallery Singapore, and Merlion Park. Right across from the hotel, there's a FairPrice supermarket, and next to it is the Tanjong Pagar Food Centre. There's also a food mall right beside the hotel with a Ya Kun Kaya Toast outlet. Maxwell Food Centre and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple are both just a 10-minute walk away. Getting around and finding places to eat are incredibly easy. Highly recommend staying here!DariDKK 917
Great1864 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|1.47km dari pusat bandar
The pool is absolutely beautiful, I highly recommend going for a swim and enjoying it. As for the room, the bathroom was surprisingly spacious, though my mom thought it wasn't that big. The balcony is quite small, but it's still nice for enjoying the night view. It's very convenient to walk to all the main attractions. The gym has a good range of facilities, but it's a shame there's no night view from there. I really wish they offered a free laundry room; charging for laundry at such an expensive hotel feels a bit excessive.DariDKK 2,335
Great3922 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|1.49km dari pusat bandar
An absolutely fantastic experience! The hotel offers direct views of Marina Bay Sands and Marina Bay. Right downstairs, you have Raffles City shopping center, so all your dining and shopping needs are covered. From the hotel, you can walk through the mall and in about 5 minutes, you'll reach City Hall MRT station. Most of the attractions you'd want to visit, including transfers, are within 5-6 stops, which is incredibly convenient. Taxis are also quite reasonable; a ride from the airport to the hotel, including surcharges, cost 29 SGD. Grab is also available, though sometimes you might get a Malaysian or Indian driver, in which case you can cancel and reorder. All in all, the hotel's location is excellent and the rooms are comfortable.DariDKK 1,599
Business travel
Very Good1622 Ulasan
Bugis Singapore|2.32km dari pusat bandar
Overall, it offered a comfortable and practical base in the city. From the moment I arrived, the vibe felt youthful and community-focused—very much aligned with lyf’s co-living concept, with shared spaces designed for socialising and relaxing.
One of my favourite parts of the property was the bar located right next to the front desk. It had a great vibe—casual, lively, and inviting. It made the lobby area feel more like a social hub than a typical hotel reception. Whether you’re grabbing a drink in the evening or just passing through, it adds a fun, energetic atmosphere to the stay.
The room itself was generally clean and functional. The layout is compact but thoughtfully arranged, making good use of space without feeling overly cramped. The bedding felt fresh, and the overall housekeeping standard was decent. That said, there were a few noticeable signs of wear and tear. Some areas of the walls had visible mould spots, and certain finishes felt a little dated, which slightly detracted from the modern aesthetic the brand aims for.
One thing that really caught me off guard was the in-room safe. It was located under the bed and wasn’t properly closed when I checked in. Because it sits low and slightly hidden, I accidentally bumped my leg into it quite hard—which definitely wasn’t pleasant. It’s a small detail, but something that could be improved with better checks during room preparation.
In terms of amenities, basics like slippers and toothbrushes are available, but they’re not automatically placed in the room. You’ll need to request them from the front desk if you need them, which is good to know in advance.DariDKK 537
Very Good6681 Ulasan
Kampong Glam Singapore|3km dari pusat bandar
so far i stayed here, the service was good, the room not too clean and the room quite small. they didn’t provide iron & iron board, but you need to go downstairs at level 4 to iron your clothes. they also have a self service laundry at the level 4. the hotel is near to the mrt station (lavender station) and the attraction places. and also, it is easy to get halal food. for those who have a budget for your trip, i’ll recommend to stay at this hotel 👍🏻DariDKK 617
Very Good1489 Ulasan
Bugis Singapore|1.94km dari pusat bandar
This hotel offered great value for money during Chinese New Year in Singapore. While the room was only slightly bigger than what you'd find in Japan, the location was fantastic – super convenient for public transport (buses and MRT) and surprisingly quiet, which meant I slept really well. Housekeeping was done daily, too.
The hotel is currently undergoing renovations, but there wasn't any strong smell, which was good. The only minor points were that the lobby on the ground floor was a bit small, and you have to navigate a few turns to get to the elevators.
Oh, and a tip: if you turn left when you exit the hotel and walk towards the church, there's a self-service orange juice machine that makes really delicious juice!DariDKK 638
Very Good3035 Ulasan
Lavender Singapore|3.37km dari pusat bandar
The biggest plus of this hotel is its location and surrounding amenities. It's right next to a subway and bus station, with a food court and fast food restaurants nearby, making it super convenient to get to attractions. While the lack of hot water in the morning was a minor drawback, the overall experience was still great.DariDKK 730
Very Good1001 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|1.77km dari pusat bandar
The price is great and it's perfect for a family trip. The loft layout is very convenient, and I'd likely choose this place again next time. It's about an hour's walk to the Merlion, which is good for families with two kids.DariDKK 800
Good841 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|1.87km dari pusat bandar
## Environment:
The location is good, very close to the subway, making transportation convenient. There's a convenience store downstairs, so it's easy to grab a bite if you get hungry at night. We East Asians might find the smell in some areas a bit uncomfortable (mainly in the elevator; the lobby and rooms are fine. You know the drill).
## Hygiene:
The room was quite clean.
## Service:
Check-in involved a bit of a wait. For Singapore, it seems there are fewer staff who speak Chinese. Also, my breakfast records for two days weren't logged, so I had to explain and confirm with the staff every morning.
## Breakfast:
Perhaps to cater to the needs of Indian guests, the breakfast here was truly difficult to describe...
## Facilities:
The hotel facilities are quite old, but! The important thing is that the rooms are really spacious. If you're not a fan of Singapore's super small-sized rooms, I highly recommend this place. Additionally, the hotel decor might remind you of the golden nineties; it's quite retro and stylish in its own way.DariDKK 578
Great1839 Ulasan
Orchard Road Singapore|2.1km dari pusat bandar
The hotel boasts an excellent location, right across the road from Exit B of Dhoby Ghaut MRT station, making travel incredibly convenient. The rooms are cozy, and the breakfast restaurant is located on the R floor, where you can also enjoy a swim in the pool outside if you wish. Around 3 PM, there's complimentary ice cream available near the elevators on the first floor, which is a big hit with the kids!DariDKK 676
Very Good784 Ulasan
Bugis Singapore|2.81km dari pusat bandar
I arrived at 12:00 PM and the hotel had just finished cleaning a room, so they checked me in right away. The hotel is very compact, and the room is also quite small, but it has everything you need. The facilities are decent. The hotel is kept very clean and feels cozy. The connecting road isn't noisy, and behind the hotel there's a Sultan's mosque and a bunch of street food stalls. Even though my room faced the street, it was still very quiet.DariDKK 392
Breakfast
Very Good2211 Ulasan
Harbourfront Singapore|3.39km dari pusat bandar
I've stayed here many times, and this visit still had some surprises! 🙂 First, on my second night, I saw the RWS drone show from my room (it really paid off to insist on booking a room facing Sentosa). Then, on the day I checked out, I discovered that the hotel's Station actually has an ice machine, microwave, fridge, and more! Ah, I never knew that before! 🤣
Overall, it's still a great choice for value for money, with shopping, the beach, and USS all close by. It's perfect for travelers who don't mind smaller rooms and enjoy a bit of DIY.DariDKK 671
1767 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|1.59km dari pusat bandar
For this price, don't expect too much from the cleanliness. Lower your expectations, and you might find it just about okay.
The pros: It's close to the Rainbow Police Station, Fort Canning Park, and the Little India temple. Public transport and MRT stations are a guaranteed 10-minute walk away, and there's a 7-Eleven within 5 minutes. Even though it was hot and we were tired in the afternoon, the kids still had energy, so we let them go to the pool. It's small, which is good, and not too deep, so I just relaxed on a lounge chair while they had a blast all afternoon. Clarke Quay is right next door.
Cleanliness is just average, and the rooms are small. Next time, if I increase my budget slightly, I'd stay at the Ascott Roberson House nearby.DariDKK 381
Very Good1146 Ulasan
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.92km dari pusat bandar
The spring water pool is great! There's a 7-Eleven downstairs and a free buggy stop, and the beach is just across the road. The location is excellent, though the room facilities are a bit old and the air conditioning is very noisy. There are squirrels, peacocks, and monitor lizards on the hotel grounds... very interesting.DariDKK 706
Very Good1471 Ulasan
Novena Singapore|4.21km dari pusat bandar
The hotel's location is excellent, and the environment is very pleasant, making it particularly suitable for a trip to Singapore. The front desk staff also speak Chinese, which was a great help. I had a very enjoyable trip, and I'll definitely recommend this hotel to friends visiting in the future.DariDKK 990
Great2789 Ulasan
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km dari pusat bandar
The location is excellent, though the room was a bit small. We booked for three people, and my child absolutely loved the bunk bed design. Overall, everything was great and it offered good value for money. We even saw little birds while having breakfast.
Breakfast was decent; the menu basically rotated every other day, but it had all the essentials. The service was also good.DariDKK 696
Very Good1061 Ulasan
Lavender Singapore|3.73km dari pusat bandar
I had a pleasant stay at this hotel and would happily rate it a solid 4 stars.
The location is very convenient, making it easy to get around and access nearby attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas. Check-in was smooth and efficient, and the staff were consistently friendly, professional, and helpful throughout my stay. They were always willing to assist with requests and provided good local recommendations.
Overall, this hotel provides good value for money, comfortable accommodation, and excellent service. I would recommend it to both business and leisure travelers and would consider staying here again in the future.DariDKK 437
Very Good666 Ulasan
Geylang Singapore|4.46km dari pusat bandar
This is definitely bang for the buck than other hotels in Singapore. The location is not that far from bus stations and Kallang station MRT. Since I love walking, it was not really a big deal for me to walk for 10mins or less.
It is also located in Geylang, so it’s very quiet. My mom and I were able to sleep well. Amenities is spot on, very clean and secured. Even the front desk staff were very helpful during our stay. Would definitely consider staying here again if we visit Singapore in the future. Highly recommended!DariDKK 383
Very Good2724 Ulasan
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km dari pusat bandar
Village Hotel truly upheld a high standard of hospitality during our stay. Having experienced staycations at Mandai Banyan Tree and Shangri-La, W Hotel I can confidently say their service stands out.
From the cleanliness of the facilities to the genuine care shown by the team — especially how they attended to my daughter’s cut and continued to check in on her throughout our 3-day stay — every detail was thoughtful and sincere.
We already miss Village Hotel and the wonderful staff. Thank you for making our stay so memorable ❤️DariDKK 1,103
💡 Tax Refund Tips in Singapore
Here’s what I’ve learned as a fellow Malaysian traveler:
- 📷 Snap photos of receipts just in case
- 🧳 Hand-carry big-ticket items like laptops, cameras, luxury bags
- 🏪 Shop at large chain stores for smoother refund processing
- 💳 Choose credit card or Alipay for faster refunds (cash may have limits)
- ⏰ Don’t leave it till the last minute! Changi can get busy
💸 Is It Worth Getting a Tax Refund in Singapore?
Definitely YES! For Malaysians who shop smart and travel often, the Singapore tax refund system is a great way to save. If you’re already spending on skincare, fashion, or electronics, why not claim some of that money back? 😎🎁
Even a small refund can go a long way — I used mine to buy kaya toast and a kopi before boarding my flight. Worth it lah! 🍞☕💕
🧳 Final Thoughts on Tax Refund in Singapore
Getting a GST refund in Singapore is super worth it — especially if you love shopping like I do! 🛍️ The process is fast, digital, and very tourist-friendly. As a Malaysian who crosses the Causeway quite often, this little hack has become a regular part of my trip planning.
So if you’re heading to Singapore soon, don’t leave that money behind. Shop, scan, and claim your refund before flying home! 🧾💰✈️
👉 Book your flight to Singapore now on Trip.com
👉 Find the best hotels near Orchard Road, Bugis, or Marina Bay
👉 Get a Singapore eSIM or SIM card for instant connectivity
Safe travels and happy shopping! ❤️
FAQs About Singapore Tax Refund
❓1. What is the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) in Singapore?
The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) allows international visitors (including Malaysians!) to claim a refund on the 9% Goods and Services Tax (GST) paid on eligible purchases made in Singapore. It’s Singapore’s version of a tourist tax refund — and yes, it works! 🛍️💵❓2. Am I eligible for a GST refund?
Yes, you are eligible if: ✅ You're not a Singapore citizen or PR ✅ You spend less than 365 days in Singapore over the past 24 months ✅ You depart via Changi or Seletar Airport ✅ Your purchase is at least SGD 100 at a participating TRS store ✅ You bring the unused goods out of Singapore within 2 months❓3. What is the GST rate in Singapore?
As of 2024, the GST rate is 9%. If you spend SGD 500, for example, that’s SGD 45 in GST — and you can claim most of it back. 💰❓4. How much GST can I get back?
You’ll typically get about 7%–8% refunded after administrative fees. The exact amount depends on your purchase value and refund method.❓5. What is eTRS?
eTRS (Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme) is a digital system used in Singapore. Instead of filling forms, your passport is scanned at checkout and purchases are linked electronically. At the airport, you simply scan your passport at a kiosk to process your refund.❓6. What items are eligible for GST refund?
You can claim GST refund on physical goods like: 👗 Clothing & fashion 🧴 Skincare and cosmetics 🎧 Electronics and gadgets 🎁 Souvenirs and accessories 🚫 Not eligible: Services, hotel stays, food & beverages consumed in Singapore, or anything used before departure.❓7. Where do I claim my GST refund?
You can claim your refund only at the airport: 🛫 Changi Airport (all terminals) 🛫 Seletar Airport Use the eTRS kiosks located before immigration (for goods checks) and after immigration (to submit your refund claim).❓8. What do I need to present at the airport?
🛂 Your passport 🧾 Your purchase receipts 🧳 The physical goods (especially high-value items) 💳 Credit card, Alipay/WeChat Pay (for refund) 💡 Tip: Pack expensive items like laptops or bags in hand-carry for inspection if needed.❓9. How long does the refund take?
💳 Credit card refunds: Usually within 10 working days 💵 Cash refunds (SGD): Immediate (limited to SGD 500) 📱 eWallets (Alipay/WeChat Pay): Immediate or within 3–5 days❓10. Can I get my refund in cash?
Yes, but: 💵 Maximum SGD 500 in cash per tourist For higher amounts, refund goes to credit card or e-wallet Cash counters may have longer queues❓11. What happens if I forget to claim my refund?
Sadly, if you forget to process your refund before departure, or you miss the Customs check (if required), you won’t be able to claim it later. So always arrive early — at least 2.5–3 hours before your flight.❓12. Can I claim a refund at land borders (like Johor–Woodlands)?
🚫 No. You must depart Singapore by air via Changi or Seletar Airport to be eligible for the tax refund.
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