Since Langkawi acquired its duty-free status in 1987, shoppers from all around Malaysia and even further afield have flocked here to purchase a wide range of affordable goods. It's definitely worth saving some space in your suitcase to take advantage of the low prices. It's important to note that there may be limits on how many duty-free items you can take with you, and this will depend on the customs regulations at your destination. Be aware that not all shops and malls sell items at duty-free prices, although there are plenty that do. Prices also vary between different duty-free stores and shopping centres, for example, those located at the airport or jetty are often more expensive.
A huge range of items can be purchased duty-free in Langkawi; however, some of the most popular ones are chocolates, alcohol, cigarettes and cigars, perfume, kitchenware, bags and suitcases, sportswear, cosmetics, and electronics. Kuah is the capital city and commercial hub of Langkawi, and as such, this is where the majority of duty-free shops are. However, with most of Langkawi's hotels being around the Pantai Cenang area, there are also some duty-free stores there.
Kuah is home to several duty-free shopping centres as well as independent stores selling a wide range of goods. One such shop is Haji Ismail Group, which has five branches in Kuah, stocking duty-free chocolate, homeware, suitcases, and other goods at affordable prices. Kuah is also home to Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall, one of Langkawi’s oldest and largest shopping centres. Over 100 stores sell a wide range of goods, however not all shops here are duty-free.
Another duty-free shopping complex is Saga, which is best known for affordable liquor but also sells plenty of other duty-free goods at incredible prices. Alternatively, head to Langkawi Parade Mega Mall, a large shopping complex, which is home to several department stores with a huge array of duty-free items, such as chocolate, liquor, tobacco, perfume, cosmetics, clothes, and luggage. For cheap designer sportswear, look no further than Al Ikshan, an independent duty-free store. Finally, Jetty Point Shopping Complex, located at the entrance of Kuah Jetty is particularly popular amongst those leaving or arriving via ferry looking to purchase duty-free items. It tends to be slightly more expensive than other duty-free shopping centres, but it’s worth taking a look if you want to buy clothing, jewellery, chocolate, or perfume.
As mentioned above, Pantai Cenang is also home to a couple of duty-free outlets. The Zon is a huge duty-free shopping centre, with affordable stores selling a wide range of items including chocolate, alcohol, cigarettes, gifts, souvenirs, perfume, cosmetics, clothes, accessories, and suitcases. Located close to The Zon, Coco Valley is best known for selling a diverse array of duty-free chocolate, but also sells other duty-free goods such as cigarettes and perfume.
Finally, if you’re arriving or leaving by plane you can shop for duty-free products at Langkawi Airport. Whilst it tends to be pricier than other duty-free options, there are stores selling gifts, souvenirs, clothes, and cosmetics.
