Food startup Khetika launches manufacturing plant in Mumbai
The facility is dedicated exclusively to its fresh product category, including preservative-free batters and chutneys, and is located in Taloja Industrial Area, near Panvel, the company said in a statement.
The company has raised USD 18 million in a Series B funding round in July. The fund was used for setting up the manufacturing plant.
'The Mumbai facility allows us to reduce turnaround time significantly — ensuring that our zero-preservative products reach consumers within 24 hours of production," Khetika co-founder and CEO Dr Prithwi Singh said.
***** Uniqus Consultech to invest USD 10 million in AI consulting practice * Mumbai, Aug 5 (PTI) Uniqus Consultech on Tuesday said it will invest around USD 10 million in a newly launched artificial intelligence consulting practice.
Christened AI Universe, the new practice is a purpose-built, holistic ecosystem that combines Uniqus' functional knowledge in finance, risk, and sustainability with technical expertise of AI, as per a statement.
***** AWS announces collaboration with Winzo * Amazon Web Services (AWS) on Tuesday announced that gaming company Winzo is scaling its Global Center of Excellence (GCoE) with its solutions.
The collaboration will empower 2,000+ startups with mentorship, cloud tools, and access to global opportunities with AWS.
The gaming company with more than 250 million active users launched the GCoE in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce in November 2024, as per a statement. PTI SM AA TRB
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How to claim your 15% VAT refund in Saudi Arabia: Everything visitors need to know
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Here's a comprehensive guide to help travelers understand the eligibility, process, rules, and important details, so they can easily claim their VAT refund before leaving the Kingdom. Understanding the VAT refund policy Saudi Arabia's Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has officially introduced a VAT refund system for international tourists and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals. This move allows visitors to reclaim the 15% VAT paid on qualifying purchases, helping to support the Kingdom's larger strategy of attracting global tourism and stimulating spending in its retail sector. Effective Date: The VAT refund policy has been in effect since April 18. Applicable VAT Rate: Eligible purchases are effectively charged 0% VAT at the point of sale from approved retailers. The 15% VAT paid is refunded later via authorized providers. Scope of Eligibility: Non-residents aged 18 and above are eligible. GCC nationals are included until new electronic services laws are implemented. Shoppers who are not a member of cabin or crew on a flight, aircraft, ship, or any other means of transportation departing from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia A minimum spend of SAR 500 (approx.$133) per retailer (can be combined from up to three invoices on the same day) is required. This VAT exemption only applies to goods and excludes services, meaning that accommodation, food, beverages, tobacco, vehicles, boats, aircraft, and petroleum products are not eligible. Where and how to shop To benefit from the refund, shopping must be done only at ZATCA-authorized retail outlets that are part of the tax refund system. As of now, there are: 1,442 authorized retailers across the Kingdom. These include major outlets in tourism-heavy cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. At the point of sale, tourists must: Inform the retailer that they intend to claim a VAT refund. Present a valid passport or GCC ID. Request the VAT exemption form. Receive the original invoice, which must clearly show the VAT amount. Receive the VAT refund application form. Important: The goods must be unused, strictly for personal use, and exported within 90 days of the purchase date. How to spot ZATCA-approved retailers for VAT refunds If you're planning to claim back the 15% VAT on your shopping in Saudi Arabia, one of the most important steps is to make sure you're buying from the right stores, those officially partnered with the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA). Only these approved retailers are authorized to issue the documents needed for your VAT refund. Here's how to make sure you're shopping at an eligible store: 1. Look for 'tax free' or 'VAT refund' signs Most ZATCA-approved retailers will clearly display signage that says 'Tax Free Shopping' or 'VAT Refund Available,' usually at the entrance, checkout counter, or both. This is your visual cue that the store is part of the VAT refund system and can provide the proper tax-free form for your purchases. 2. Ask the store staff before you buy If you're unsure, just ask. Most staff in major malls, international fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and tourist-friendly shops will know whether their store participates in the refund program. It only takes a moment to confirm and could save you from missing out on your refund later 3. Use the Global Blue store locator Saudi Arabia's VAT refund process is powered by Global Blue, a well-known tax refund operator. To plan your shopping more efficiently: Visit the Global Blue website or download the Global Blue mobile app. Use the store locator tool to search for participating retailers by city, mall, or category. This tool is updated regularly and is the most practical way to find approved stores across Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and other cities. 4. 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